Section 4: Primary functions of the Police Force.

The Police Force shall: (a) prevent and detect crimes, and protect the rights and freedom of every person in Nigeria as provided In the Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and any other law;
(b) maintain public safety, law and order;
(c) protect the lives and property of all persons in Nigeria;
(d) enforce all laws and regulations without any prejudice to the enabling Acts of other security agencies;
(e) discharge such duties within and outside Nigeria as may be required of it under this Act or any other law;
(f) collaborate with other agencies to take any necessary action and provide the required assistance or support to persons in distress, Including victims of road accidents, fire disasters, earthquakes and floods;
(g) facilitate the free passage and movement on highways, roads and streets open to the public; and
(h) adopt community partnership in the discharge of its responsibilities under this Act or under any other law; and
(i) vet and approve the registration of private detective schools and private investigative outfits.