ACP Venerable Joshua Babajide Omoyele on Divine Calling, Barrack Chapels, Interfaith Partnerships and the Urgent Need for More Chaplains
Felix Mbata, Lagos state
For two decades, a quiet but decisive spiritual department has been reshaping the moral and pastoral landscape of Nigeria’s premier security institution.
At the Lord of Lords Police Chapel, Lagos State Command, Ikeja, the Nigeria Police Force Chaplaincy Service marked its 20th Anniversary with a celebration themed “20 Years of Faithful Chaplaincy Service and Impact.”
The event drew senior Police officers, civilian chaplains, captains of industry, and dignitaries, while also delivering free medical outreach and recording numerous conversions among officers and civilians.
Leading the milestone is ACP Venerable Joshua Babajide Omoyele, the Force Chaplain and Head of NPF Chaplaincy.
In this exclusive interview with ‘The Unique Model Magazine, he details the prophetic beginning of his journey in uniform, the establishment of chapels across barracks nationwide, the Force leadership’s support, the strategic role of civilian chaplains, and the pressing need to expand Chaplaincy manpower to meet growing demand.
This is the definitive account of Chaplaincy’s journey in the NPF — from revelation to impact.
The Unique Model Magazine: Good evening, Sir. As a distinguished personality at this 20th Anniversary, please introduce yourself to our readers.
ACP Venerable Joshua Babajide Omoyele: My name is Chaplain Venerable Joshua Babajide Omoyele, Assistant Commissioner of Police. I am the Head of the Nigeria Police Force Chaplaincy.
The Unique Model Magazine: What drew you to serve as a Chaplain in the Nigeria Police Force?
ACP Omoyele: When God called me into ministry, I had a vision. I saw myself wearing a Police uniform and people honouring me. I woke up and said, “I will be a pastor, and government will pay my salary.” I never thought it would be in the Police. After training at Emmanuel College, Benin, I served 20 years as an Anglican priest in Ekiti State. Then the door opened. My Bishop sent a letter that the Nigeria Police needed a Chaplain. At Force Headquarters, Abuja, DIG Okiro, then in charge of operations and religious activities committee that birthed our Chaplaincy, interviewed me. When I stepped out, that old vision returned and I wept. I realized then that God had been preparing me for this path.
The Unique Model Magazine: Unlike civilian pastors who receive tithes and offerings, Chaplaincy in a disciplined Force is different. Are you fulfilled?
ACP Omoyele: Absolutely. I am fulfilling my calling with clarity. If I were not in the Police, I would not be at peace, because the revelation came before the appointment. God has continually confirmed that He sent me here.
The Unique Model Magazine: What evidence do you have that God called you? Any key achievements?
ACP Omoyele: Before Chaplaincy, many officers and their families had no place to worship in the barracks. Today, we have chapels in the South, East, and West. Families now worship inside barracks on Sundays and weekdays. Even at the IGP’s official quarters in Abuja, we have a chapel. Retired IGP Gabriel Ehindero once said, “Even if I have done nothing else, I have moved the Police closer to God” because of the Chaplaincy Department. That statement gladdens my heart.
The Unique Model Magazine: Some men of God avoid the Police, citing corruption. What’s your response as an insider?
ACP Omoyele: I understand that perception, but I encourage them to come in and see for themselves. A pastor friend visited the Force Quarters and saw officers in uniform praying and speaking in tongues. Afterward, he asked if I had “rented” them. I told him, “These are Police officers. Check their names.” His orientation changed. When men of God step inside, they will see how God is using officers to win souls and sustain faith while they carry out national duty.
The Unique Model Magazine: How have senior officers supported your work?
ACP Omoyele: By God’s grace, our leaders have been remarkable. The IGP, DIGs, AIGs, CPs, DCPs and others have backed Chaplaincy. We recently dedicated a refurbished chapel at Force Headquarters, Abuja. Retired IGP Kayode Egbetokun refurbished it, and the current IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu continues to support our programmes. When Christians and Muslims fasted together, IGP Disu facilitated a joint programme at Force HQ with the three Chaplaincy sections. The Force Headquarters also provides kits, uniforms, and operational platforms. The authorities have granted us one hour for prayer in the chapel and permit Christian officers to serve God when off duty. Religious activities are running smoothly by God’s grace.
The Unique Model Magazine: How is collaboration among the three Chaplaincy formations?
ACP Omoyele: We have Protestant, Catholic, and Imam Chaplaincy. We work together on religious activities. When the three sections unite, the authorities are compelled to support us. That synergy has been a blessing.
The Unique Model Magazine: Civilian chaplains are active in Lagos Command. What’s your assessment?
ACP Omoyele: It is a wonderful partnership. Due to our regimented structure, there are spaces we cannot easily access. Civilian chaplains and pastors can. Some people see our uniform and assume we are there to arrest them. Civilian chaplains penetrate those spaces and return with results. Many are friends of senior officers and help to promote godliness within the Force. They are doing well.
The Unique Model Magazine: After 20 years, what are your major challenges?
ACP Omoyele: The Police serves Nigerians 24/7, and our religious demands are growing. Our challenge is manpower. We need more Chaplains to cover commands, divisions, area commands, and barrack chapels. We are appealing to the authorities to recruit more Chaplains to meet the need across the Force.
The Unique Model Magazine: Your final words of appreciation as we mark 20 years?
ACP Omoyele: First, to IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu for exceptional support. Hosting a joint Christian-Muslim programme opened new doors. I pray God sustains him. My gratitude also goes to all DIGs and senior officers. Here in Lagos, I thank CP Tijani Fatai for his marvelous work. I pray God sustains him.