Chief Superintendent Victor Olisa, a U.K.-based Nigerian police officer with the London Metropolitan police, has been appointed the first black borough commander for Bexley Police, in the United Kingdom. He assumed office on April 16 and is tasked with overseeing all policing matters in the area.
Olisa, who is 52 years old, was born in Warri, Delta State, Southern Nigeria, and is one of the three chief superintendents from black minority ethnic backgrounds working for the Metropolitan Police.
He started his career in Surrey Police in 1982, taking on the role of sergeant in 1985, before transferring to the City of London Police in 1990 as detective inspector in the Fraud Squad. He then became chief inspector in 2003, before working in the race unit at the Home Office. He was transferred to the Metropolitan police in 2006 as a superintendent in Southwark Council before his recent appointment.
Olisa, whose grandfather was a police officer in Nigeria, said his focus was on the job rather than on being the first ‘black person’ to hold the position.
“Policing runs in the family and I have always wanted to be a police officer and ethnicity does not affect that. I consider myself first and foremost a police officer. If (being black) is an advantage, then brilliant; If it’s a disadvantage, I will have to deal with that, I can’t hide it,” Olisa told reporters in London, after his appointment.
He said a lot was being done to address racism within the force, adding that it was the responsibility of the force to correct wrongs and not an institution for people with racist views.
“I am impeccably against anyone who uses racist language or behaves in a racist manner. This will not be allowed under my watch…I believe that everyone should be treated with dignity wherever they come from,” Olisa said.
Chief Superintendent Victor Olisa lives in Surrey, with his physiotherapist wife and two teenage children.
Making a career change can feel both exciting and terrifying. Embarking on and excelling in a new career path is a big, brave step, whether you’re switching industries, going back to school, or starting your own business. But don’t worry – we’ve got your back! Here are ten top tips to help you thrive … Continue reading 10 Tips for Excelling in a New Career Path: Your Guide to Reinventing Yourself
We’ve all been there – the night before an interview, stomach doing flips, wondering if we’re prepared. Whether it’s your first job interview or your fifteenth, knowing what to do before an interview can make the difference between landing your dream job and walking away disappointed. Let’s break down exactly how to prepare, so … Continue reading What to Do Before an Interview: A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Big Day
Want to stop competing for low-paying gigs and start commanding premium rates as a freelance writer? This article explores strategies to help you level up as a freelance writer; from merely surviving to thriving. This isn’t about overnight success – but building a sustainable, profitable writing business that grows with you. Read more about … Continue reading How to Level Up as a Freelance Writer
As an entrepreneur, your ability to focus can make or break your success. In this article, we will explore proven strategies to eliminate distractions as an entrepreneur and maximize your productivity. These strategies are broken down into practical, actionable steps that you can implement right away! Read more about Career Create a Dedicated Workspace … Continue reading Sure-fire Ways to Eliminate Distractions as an Entrepreneur