President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unveiled ambitious plans to revolutionize the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing a cultural shift within the institution aimed at addressing deep-rooted challenges and modernizing its operations.
At the inaugural Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu declared April 7th as ‘Police National Day’, symbolizing the government’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices and dedication of law enforcement officers across the nation. The event marked a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to reform the police force and enhance its effectiveness in maintaining law and order.
In his address, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, reiterated the government’s determination to invest in the training, capacity-building, and equipping of police officers with the necessary tools and expertise for modern policing. Shettima emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address institutional mentality and memory among officers, recognizing these as fundamental to achieving meaningful reform.
Tinubu’s vision extends beyond superficial changes, aiming for a fundamental overhaul of the police force’s institutional mindset and practices. He emphasized the importance of justice administration and adherence to ethical values in fostering stability and order. By prioritizing these principles, the administration seeks to instill a culture of professionalism, accountability, and public trust within the police force.
The ceremony also served as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate exemplary officers who have demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication in the line of duty. President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, commended their selflessness and patriotism, emphasizing the critical role they play in safeguarding communities and upholding the rule of law. Akpabio called for continued efforts to weed out bad actors within the force while celebrating the unsung heroes who embody the best of Nigeria’s law enforcement.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, echoed Tinubu’s sentiments, praising the recipients for their unwavering commitment to service. He assured them of the force’s commitment to their welfare and recognized the support received from the government in enhancing operational capabilities and improving working conditions.
Former IG Solomon Arase underscored the importance of enhancing the welfare package for police personnel, emphasizing its direct impact on performance and effectiveness. Arase commended the administration for its support thus far and pledged the cooperation of the Police Service Commission in furthering the transformation agenda.
The event brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, state governors, and military leaders, highlighting the collective effort towards reforming and strengthening Nigeria’s law enforcement capabilities. It served as a testament to the government’s commitment to building a modern, professional, and accountable police force that reflects the aspirations and values of the Nigerian people.
As the nation struggles with evolving security challenges, the government’s focus on police reform represents a critical step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens. With continued investment in training, capacity-building, and institutional reform, Nigeria is poised to usher in a new era of effective and responsive law enforcement that serves and protects the interests of the public.
Source: This Day Live
