Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, has launched a Department of Criminology and Security Studies within its Faculty of Social Sciences, becoming the first institution in the Southeast region to establish such a department.
The new department is designed to equip graduates with analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills to address crime and security threats across law enforcement agencies, security firms, government organisations and the private sector. The programme incorporates practical training, internships and research projects intended to prepare students for real world security challenges.
The inauguration attracted senior officials from key security agencies in the state. The Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, represented by DCP Dr DT Abuja of the Criminal Investigation Department, pledged the police command's full collaboration with the department. He announced that students would be the first from IMSU to access the command's forensic laboratory, noting that the facility had previously supported students from the Federal University of Technology Owerri for eight months. "Our doors are open for you. We are going to interact with you as instructors," he said.
The Controller of Correctional Services, Imo State Command, MO Okolie, described the development as a welcome one and urged students to champion the fight against campus vices. "With this department, there'll be no cultism, strikes, or riots," he said, encouraging students to use their training to promote the message that "crime is bad."
The Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Imo State Command, represented by Assistant State Commander Emeka Opara, also expressed enthusiasm about the department. "This department is important, especially at this time when security is crucial," he said, urging students to be dedicated to contributing to a safer society.
Security experts believe graduates of the programme will make meaningful contributions to national safety, bringing fresh professional capacity to Nigeria's broader security architecture.
