By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja | Media360Impact Report. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) today took his final salute in uniform, marking the end of a distinguished 36-year career in the Nigeria Police Force. Addressing a distinguished pull-out parade, he expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God, the President, and all those who supported him throughout his tenure.
The outgoing IGP acknowledged the legacy of his predecessors, noting that the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force is a continuum of service and responsibility, rather than the story of one individual. He emphasized that the progress made during his tenure forms part of the ongoing institutional journey of the Force.
“I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting me with the privilege to lead this great institution,” he said.
During his leadership, the IGP spearheaded several reforms aimed at enhancing professionalism, merit-based advancement, intelligence-led policing, and operational capacity.
Among the milestones achieved:
Expansion of the Intelligence Bureau to a full department headed by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police.
Elevation of the Legal and Medical Units to Directorate status.
Development of the Cybercrime Centre into a state-of-the-art facility for monitoring cyberspace and supporting investigations.
Strengthened investigative and operational capacity, including the National Criminal Database and training of officers across all commands.
Establishment of new Police Mobile Force Squadrons, Area Commands, and Divisions, along with the Special Intervention Squad, which recorded significant successes nationwide.
The IGP also highlighted efforts in fostering community engagement and strategic international partnerships with countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, China, Egypt, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates.
These collaborations created opportunities for officer training, scholarships, and specialized programs.
Infrastructure development was another key focus. Barracks redevelopment projects in Kano and Kaduna were completed, while similar projects continue in Lagos. Modern state command headquarters were commissioned in Ogun and Adamawa States, alongside other operational facilities across the country.
To promote integrity and excellence within the Force, the Annual Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony was introduced. Other notable achievements include:
Federal Government recognition of April 7 as National Police Day.
Passage of the Police Institutions Establishment Act, securing direct funding for police training institutions.
Presidential approval for the comprehensive renovation of police schools and colleges nationwide.
The IGP concluded by commending the dedication, loyalty, and sacrifices of all officers and staff, as well as the support of the Honorable Minister of Police Affairs, the National Assembly, sister security agencies, and international partners.
He also acknowledged the presence of invited guests and expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family for their unwavering support.
“This farewell is not just mine; it belongs to all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force. Your courage, professionalism, and commitment have made these achievements possible,” he stated.
