President Bola Tinubu has once again emphasized his administration’s unwavering dedication to the full-scale transformation of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies across the country.
Speaking on Wednesday during the second edition of the Nigeria Police Award and Commendation Ceremony held in Abuja, Tinubu’s message was delivered by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who reiterated the government’s resolve to modernize policing in Nigeria.
“My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to reform and reposition the Nigeria Police Force. We recognise that modern policing requires modern tools, intelligence-led strategies, robust community engagement, and continuous training,” Akpabio quoted the President as saying.
The Federal Government, according to Tinubu, will continue to invest heavily in state-of-the-art equipment, technological innovations, capacity-building programs, and welfare initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and boosting the morale of police officers at all ranks.
Highlighting the importance of professionalism and accountability, Tinubu urged police personnel to uphold the rule of law and reject corruption and misconduct. “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. Uphold the rule of law. Reject misconduct and corruption. Let your actions reflect honour, integrity, and discipline,” he added.
Senate President Akpabio, in his remarks, announced a personal donation of ₦5 million to the family of the late Assistant Commissioner of Police Aniedi Cecilia Udoh, who was posthumously honoured with the 2024 Community Policing Advocate of the Year award. Udoh, who died in May while actively serving as the Area Commander of Ahoada in Rivers State, hailed from Akwa Ibom State.
Akpabio also recounted his longstanding support for the police, recalling his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State where he provided the force with 350 patrol vehicles equipped with communication gadgets, four armoured personnel carriers, and marine police infrastructure. He further highlighted his efforts in building 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. On behalf of the National Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to appropriate the necessary resources to enhance the welfare and strength of the Nigeria Police Force,” Akpabio affirmed.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, in his welcome address, stressed that the transformation of the police is not merely a slogan but a continuous commitment. “This is not just about awards; it’s about legacy. Policing is not a transactional duty—it is a transformational mission, and the Nigerian people remain our most vital partners in this journey,” Egbetokun said.
The ceremony served not only to commend outstanding officers but also to reinforce the government’s pledge to modernize and professionalize the Nigeria Police Force comprehensively.
