President Bola Tinubu has disclosed plans to deepen investment in police training, intelligence gathering, and modern law enforcement systems as part of a broader plan to transform the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) into a world-class institution.
He made the declaration in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, on Tuesday at the grand finale of the 2nd National Police Day.
President Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, maintained that no nation can make meaningful progress without a secure social environment.
He said the Nigerian state owes a permanent moral duty to empower its security agencies, as the nation’s peace is only as secure as the men and women who keep vigil over its citizens.
Accordingly, he declared that the Nigerian Government would deepen investments in training, intelligence gathering, and modern policing infrastructure as part of his administration’s ongoing reform agenda.
“We will continue to support these reforms through sustained investment in training and capacity development, modern equipment and technology, improved intelligence and investigative capabilities, and better welfare and working conditions for police personnel.
“We are determined to build a Police Force that is well equipped, well trained, and well-motivated to confront the complex security challenges of our time,” the President stated.
Sacrifice
He acknowledged the burden of sacrifice being shouldered by the police force, stressing that the country cannot afford to take such sacrifice for granted because “every nation is only as safe as those who keep vigil while others sleep.”
Underscoring the need to empower the force, President Tinubu said, “Nigeria must strengthen those who protect the nation. Security is not simply the defence of territory or the prevention of crime. It is the first currency of progress.”
Tribute
The President paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifice as part of the nation’s enduring moral inheritance.
His words: “Their sacrifice is written into the conscience of our country. Their memory must remain a lamp to those who wear this uniform today and to those who will wear it tomorrow. To their families, I extend the profound gratitude of a grateful nation.”
The Nigerian leader commended serving officers for their resilience and dedication in maintaining law and order across the country, often under difficult and dangerous conditions.
He further charged officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and fidelity to the rule of law.
“The uniform you wear is not a licence for arbitrariness; it is a covenant of service. The badge on your chest is not an ornament of power; it is a reminder of duty,” President Tinubu declared, even as he demanded stronger collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
The President reaffirmed the administration’s vision of building a police institution that embodies excellence, accountability, courage, and service, while restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
Addressing Concerns
In his address, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, said the police force under his command is deeply aware of the expectations and concerns of the Nigerian people, stating that the approval of President Tinubu for the commemoration of National Police Day is a commitment to the service of fallen and serving officers.
He acknowledged the risks and sacrifices of personnel, urging them to shun indiscipline and misconduct.
IGP Disu pledged support for officers who uphold the rules and assured Nigerians of a more disciplined, accountable, and professional force.
He added that the current leadership is building an intelligence-led institution committed to professionalism.