President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to overhauling the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies pledging to invest consistently in tools, training, and welfare initiatives to enhance professionalism and morale among police personnel.
Speaking through Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the second edition of the Nigeria Police Award and Commendation Ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the importance of modernizing the police.
“My administration is firmly committed to reforming and repositioning the Nigeria Police Force. We understand that effective policing depends on modern tools, intelligence-led strategies, strong community engagement, and ongoing training,” Tinubu stated.
He vowed that the government would maintain its investment in advanced equipment, technological innovations, capacity-building programs, and welfare schemes aimed at boosting operational efficiency and morale throughout the ranks of the police.
While expressing confidence in ongoing reforms, Tinubu urged police officers to remain professional, accountable, and dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities.
“You must protect the safety and rights of Nigerians. Use your authority for protection, not intimidation; for service, not abuse,” he said.
“Always uphold the rule of law. Reject misconduct and corruption. Let your conduct reflect honour, integrity, and discipline.”
Tinubu also congratulated recipients of the 2024 Police Awards, applauding their dedication and urging them not to become complacent.
During the event, Akpabio announced a personal donation of ₦5 million to the family of the late Assistant Commissioner of Police, Aniedi Cecilia Udoh. The organisers posthumously honoured Udoh with the 2024 Community Policing Advocate of the Year award. She served as the Area Commander of Ahoada in Rivers State before her death in May while in active service. She hailed from Akwa Ibom State.
Akpabio highlighted his longstanding support for the Police, recalling that during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, he supplied 350 patrol vehicles with communication equipment, four armoured personnel carriers, and marine police infrastructure to the Force. He also built a mobile police base and a police secondary school at no cost to the Police.
“As Senate President, I facilitated the completion of 10 police stations in my senatorial district,” Akpabio said. “I remain committed to supporting the Police. On behalf of the National Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to allocate the resources needed to improve the welfare and capacity of the Nigeria Police Force.”
In his welcome address, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun stressed the Police Force’s ongoing transformation.
“Our commitment goes beyond slogans,” Egbetokun said. “This is not just about awards—it’s about legacy. Policing is not transactional; it is transformational. The Nigerian people remain our most important partners in this mission.”
