President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the comprehensive transformation of the Nigeria Police Force, pledging sustained investment in modern tools, training, and welfare to enhance professionalism and morale among officers.
Tinubu’s remarks were delivered by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday at the second edition of the Nigeria Police Award and Commendation Ceremony held in Abuja.
“My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to reform and reposition the Nigeria Police Force,” the President said. “We recognise that modern policing requires modern tools, intelligence-led strategies, robust community engagement, and continuous training.”
The President emphasised that the government would continue to invest in advanced equipment, technological innovations, capacity-building initiatives, and welfare schemes designed to boost operational efficiency and elevate morale across all ranks.
He also called on police personnel to maintain the highest standards of integrity, urging them to reject misconduct and abuse of power.
“You are entrusted with the safety and rights of the Nigerian people. The power you wield is not for intimidation, but for protection; not for abuse, but for service,” Tinubu said. “Let your actions reflect honour, integrity, and discipline.”
Congratulating recipients of the 2024 Police Awards, the President applauded their dedication and urged them to continue in service excellence.
Senate President Akpabio, in his address, donated ₦5 million to the family of late Assistant Commissioner of Police Aniedi Cecilia Udoh, posthumously honoured as the 2024 Community Policing Advocate of the Year. Udoh, who died in May while serving as Area Commander in Ahoada, Rivers State, hailed from Akwa Ibom.
Akpabio highlighted his long-standing support for the Police, recalling how, as Governor of Akwa Ibom, he provided 350 patrol vehicles, four armoured personnel carriers, and marine policing infrastructure. He also built a mobile police base and a police secondary school at no cost to the Force.
“As Senate President, I have facilitated the completion of 10 police stations in my senatorial district. I am not tired of supporting the Police,” he said, pledging that the National Assembly would continue to appropriate necessary resources to strengthen the Force.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, in his welcome address, reiterated that police transformation is not merely a slogan but a sustained commitment.
“Policing is not a transactional duty—it is a transformational mission, and the Nigerian people remain our most vital partners in this journey,” he said.
