President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong warning to officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, urging them to shun all forms of intimidation, corruption, and misconduct while committing fully to the rule of law and professional conduct.
Speaking at the 2nd Annual IGP’s Awards and Commendation Ceremony held Wednesday night in Abuja, Tinubu — represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio — stressed that law enforcement officers must serve with integrity and be accountable to the people they are paid to protect.
“The power you wield is not for intimidation but for protection. It is not for abuse but for service,” Tinubu said. “You must be guided by the highest standards of accountability and professionalism.”
The president reiterated the administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police Force through investment in modern equipment, digital tools, capacity-building programs, and improved welfare for officers.
“Modern policing demands modern tools, continuous training, intelligence-led strategies, and community partnership,” he said. “We will continue to invest in operational efficiency and boosting morale across the ranks.”
He congratulated the award recipients and urged them to remain committed to service, describing them as examples of dedication and honour.
“You have made the nation proud. But do not rest on your laurels — let this recognition spur you to even greater heights,” he said.
Tinubu emphasized that the police must focus on building public trust and community engagement, adding that “the Nigerian people deserve a police force that is responsive, responsible, and respected.”
IGP Egbetokun: Transformation Is a Daily Commitment
In his remarks, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, acknowledged the evolving nature of crime in Nigeria — from terrorism and kidnapping to cybercrime — and stressed the need for innovation and global best practices within the force.
“The future of policing in Nigeria must be smarter, faster, more trusted, and unapologetically people-focused,” the IGP said.
He emphasized that the cornerstone of modern policing remains community partnership, stating that legitimacy, not force, is what drives effectiveness.
“Without legitimacy, there is no effectiveness. That is why community partnership remains the cornerstone of our operations,” he said.
Egbetokun praised the awardees, describing them as “extraordinary” officers who have chosen excellence over entitlement and have become symbols of quiet heroism across the country.
“From patrol officers who brave the night to detectives cracking syndicates, you are the reason our nation can sleep with renewed hope.”
He also emphasized that the award selection process was rigorous, merit-based, and transparently conducted in partnership with Lenders Consult International.
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