The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has urged officers to uphold integrity, protect human rights, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking at the National Police Day on Monday in Abuja, Egbetokun emphasized that the celebration should not only honour the sacrifices of law enforcement officers but also renew their commitment to ethical policing and public trust.
The IGP acknowledged the sacrifice, and steadfast service of officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) while signaling a new era of institutional reform and renewed public commitment.
The occasion follows a declaration by President Bola Tinubu, who through the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, at the 2024 Police Award and Commendation Ceremony proclaimed April 7th as National Police Day, with the first week of April designated as Police Week annually.
“Today offers us not only a time for celebration but also a solemn moment for reflection and renewed commitment to the principles of justice, service, and professional policing.
“It is a bold affirmation of Mr. President’s support for institutional reform and capacity enhancement of our personnel.
“This transformation signifies our nation’s relentless pursuit of order, unity, and national security,” he said.
He noted that many of Nigeria’s other security and intelligence agencies have roots in the Police Force, benefiting from its leadership and institutional capacity.
Egbetokun also paid homage to police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
“To their families, we say your pain is our burden. We offer our deepest sympathies and unwavering support. These fallen officers remain eternal symbols of national sacrifice”, Egbetokun stated.
He also lauded the dedication of currently serving officers, acknowledging their resilience in the face of modern security challenges and their contribution to national stability.
The IGP used the occasion to highlight ongoing reforms within the NPF, aimed at repositioning the Force as a modern, accountable, and service-driven institution.
“We have initiated strategic policies and programmes focused on capacity building, ethics and attitudinal reorientation, modernisation of operational tools, and enhanced transparency and accountability,” he said.
Egbetokun expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the National Assembly for their support in advancing police reforms.
He also extended gratitude to the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their continuous cooperation through intelligence-sharing and joint operations.
Calling on all Nigerians, the IGP described the National Police Day not just as a celebration but as a reminder of the critical role of the police in building a stable democracy.
“Let this day mark a renewed call to excellence. Let us recommit to the highest standards of conduct, respect for human rights, and people-centred policing,” he urged.
He reaffirmed the Force’s pledge to protect lives and property across Nigeria and called for public partnership in building a police institution that stands as a “beacon of hope, service, and national pride.”
The event closed with a colorful parade of various police formations, as spectators applauded the men and women who form the backbone of Nigeria’s internal security.