The immediate former Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, stated that his role in leading the Nigeria Police Force represented the pinnacle of his professional journey.
Egbetokun made this declaration on Thursday in Abuja at a pullout parade held in his honor.
He emphasized that the position of I-G is characterized by a continuing commitment and duty that is transferred from one leader to another for the benefit of the police force and the citizens of Nigeria.
He remarked that the leadership of the Nigerian Police is not merely a personal narrative but an ongoing tale of an institution dedicated to serving the nation.
"The chance to oversee this esteemed institution remains one of the highest honors of my professional life," he stated.
During his tenure, he noted significant efforts were made to enhance institutional processes and improve the operational capacity of the Nigerian Police Force to address modern security challenges.
"We focused on driving reforms aimed at fostering professionalism, enhancing merit-based promotion, improving intelligence-led policing, and expanding the operational capabilities within the police force," he conveyed.
As part of these initiatives, the Intelligence Bureau was elevated to the status of a full department, now led by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police.
Egbetokun indicated that both the Legal and Medical Units were upgraded to directory status to enhance organizational efficiency and service delivery.
He added that the Nigeria Police National Cyber Crime Centre was further developed into an advanced facility capable of monitoring the Nigerian cyberspace and supporting contemporary investigations.
Strengthening investigative and operational capabilities was another focus, which included upgrades to the national criminal database and training for personnel across all ranks up to the divisional level.
The operational presence of the Nigeria Police Force was increased with the establishment of additional police mobile force units.
“We also established new Area Commands and Divisions to bring policing closer to the communities. Additionally, the Special Intervention Squad was created, which has consistently achieved notable operational successes throughout the country.
“Engagement with the community and strategic partnerships were prioritized as well. Strengthened collaboration with both local and international partners enhanced the global reputation of the Nigerian Police Force and opened new avenues for officers, including international scholarships and specialized training programs,” he informed.
According to him, various nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Egypt, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates provided key support during his time in office.
The current I-G, Mr. Olatunji Disu, emphasized that the pullout parade was a momentous occasion in the history of the Nigerian Police Force.
He noted that the event transcended mere formalities and served to honor the exceptional career and lasting legacies of the former I-G.
Disu praised Egbetokun as an officer whose dedication, professionalism, and exemplary leadership defined his service to the nation and the Nigeria Police Force.
“This pullout parade in recognition of the 22nd I-G marks the formal end of a distinguished career in policing that has spanned over 35 years.
“His retirement on February 25 marks the conclusion of a professional journey that has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the Nigerian Police Force,” he stated.
He remarked that Egbetokun distinguished himself not only as a committed police officer but also as a well-educated strategist.
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