Felix Mbata, Lagos state
The United States Chaplaincy Organisation, TUSCO, joined the Nigeria Police Chaplaincy Service, Lagos State Command, to commemorate 20 years of “Faithful Chaplaincy Service and Impact” in the Nigeria Police Force. The anniversary celebration at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja, highlighted two decades of spiritual care, welfare intervention, and community outreach to officers, families, and civilians.
Representing TUSCO, Bishop Dr. Joel Olaogun said the milestone reflects God’s faithfulness in establishing chaplaincy as a critical arm of pastoral and humanitarian service within the Police. “It is a great thing for our nation that the power of God can be showcased, and spiritual care can be given to people, especially officers,” he said. He noted that while chaplaincy in the Nigeria Police Force is 20 years old by record, it has grown exponentially and is now visible in stations, commands, and communities nationwide.
TUSCO, an international faith-based organisation with affiliations across Nigeria, has its core mandate in humanitarian service and pastoral care for police personnel. The organisation has been active in Abuja and other states, providing spiritual support to officers, assisting police widows, orphans, and the less privileged, and conducting station visits for prayer and encouragement. “The anniversary is a wake-up call to do more,” Bishop Olaogun stated, describing the event as a call to expand care for those who serve and protect.
Commendation for Lagos State Command Chaplain
Bishop Olaogun praised CSP Ven. Ezekiel Ugbotor, Lagos State Command Chaplain, for exemplary leadership and integrity. He described Ugbotor as “a man with a good heart” whose decision to integrate civilian chaplains demonstrates large-heartedness and broad vision. According to him, Ugbotor’s humility, dedication to God and humanity, and commitment to advancing chaplaincy have made him amiable chaplain in the command, with testimonies of his impact widespread across Lagos.
Th anniversary also featured free medical care for officers and civilians, an initiative led by CSP Ugbotor. Bishop Olaogun expressed gratitude and called for more support, saying, “God will continue to empower him to do more. This chaplaincy needs resources and sacrifice. May God grant him destiny helpers to hold his hands high.”
TUSCO: Structure, Training, and International Standing
Speaking on membership of our Organisation TUSCO (The United States Chaplain Organisation) Bishop Olaogun said, it is licensed by the Supreme Court of New York in United States of America and also incorporated in Nigeria, TUSCO Africa runs a six-month intensive training for all entrants, covering academics and parade. The organisation operates a structured cadet system with ranks for Officers, Marshals, and Special Marshals. Entry is open to all, with fees varying by rank. Cadets can progress through the ranks based on service, or advance directly to Special Marshal after training if fees are paid.
He emphasized that TUSCO stands out as an elite, internationally recognized chaplaincy. Every officer and cadet is verified through the Supreme Court and the High Court in Nigeria before identification is issued. This process, he said, enables members to minister both locally and internationally without the certification barriers that limit many local chaplaincies. “When you look at local chaplaincy, they go through a lot of procedures before they can minister outside Nigeria. Overseers in TUSCO are licensed to minister overseas because of our structure and recognition,” he explained.
Zero Tolerance for Misconduct
Addressing reports of chaplaincy misconduct, including extortion and misuse of uniform, Bishop Olaogun was firm. He said chaplaincy is a call to spiritual care, not commercial gain. “If anybody does that, he carries the wrath of God. This uniform is meant for care to the needy and vulnerable, not for harassing people or escorting businessmen. If a chaplain is caught, he should be handed over to the Police. They should repent and stop,” he warned.
Conclusively, as the Nigeria Police Chaplaincy Service marks 20 years, TUSCO reaffirms its commitment to strengthening pastoral care, humanitarian service, and ethical leadership within the Force. Through training, verification, welfare outreach, and spiritual support, the organisation is building a generation of chaplains who serve with compassion and integrity. The anniversary is more than a celebration; it is a renewed covenant to ensure that faith, service, and humanity remain at the heart of policing in Nigeria.