The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has congratulated newly called-to-Bar police officers, urging them to deploy their legal expertise in strengthening justice delivery and reforming the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking at Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Monday, IGP Egbetokun described their achievement as “an asset to the Force and to Nigeria”, stressing that the Police cannot succeed in its mandate without officers who understand and apply the law with clarity.
“You return to this institution not just as police officers, but as custodians of legal knowledge. That knowledge must not be idle. It must be put to work – to strengthen the Force and to serve the people of Nigeria,” he declared.
The IGP hailed one of the officers who bagged First Class Honours at the Nigerian Law School, calling it “a rare and outstanding feat that has brought pride to the Nigeria Police Force.”
On the recent upgrade of the Legal Section into the Force Directorate of Legal Services, now headed by an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Egbetokun said the timing was strategic.
“The Directorate must now deliver sharper legal direction, ensure watertight prosecutions, protect the Force against legal vulnerabilities, and shape policy at the highest levels. You are entering at this turning point, and the responsibility rests heavily on your shoulders.”
Charging the officers, the Police Chief was emphatic:“The Nigeria Police Force does not need lawyers in uniform for decoration. We need officers who add value — who will defend this institution with skill, courage, and integrity.”
He urged them to strengthen prosecutions, uphold integrity, advise commanders with authority, advance reforms, and inspire other officers coming behind them.
Warning against abuse of privilege, Egbetokun stressed: “Do not misuse your legal knowledge for personal advantage. Excellence will be recognized and rewarded. Mediocrity will not be tolerated.”
In closing, the IGP reminded the officers of their dual responsibility to the Force, the legal profession, and the Nigerian people.
“Your call to the Bar has doubled your responsibility. The gown you wear in court must complement the uniform you wear on duty. The Police at this time needs lawyers who will make the law work for justice, for discipline, and for Nigeria.”
IGP Egbetokun to New Police Lawyers: Deliver Justice with Courage
