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IPI Nigeria Got It Wrong On IGP Egbetokun

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IPI Nigeria Got It Wrong On IGP Egbetokun

By Adewole Kehinde

The recent statement credited to the International Press Institute (IPI), Nigeria, and particularly the remarks made by its President, Mr. Musikilu Mojeed, is yet another unfortunate attempt to blackmail the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and diminish the numerous reforms he has championed since assuming office. While constructive criticism is healthy, misrepresentation of facts is not—and in this case, Mr. Mojeed got it terribly wrong.

To begin with, Mr. Mojeed’s assertion that IGP Egbetokun’s “reactions to protesters and journalists demonstrated a lack of media friendliness” is completely at variance with reality.

In fact, the Egbetokun-led police administration stands as the first in Nigeria’s democratic history to openly and actively support the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly while explicitly directing the protection of journalists covering such events.

A clear example was seen during the 2024 “End Bad Governance” protests. The Inspector-General of Police not only permitted peaceful demonstrations across the country but also issued firm instructions to the Deputy Inspectors-General of Operations and Intelligence, all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General, and the Commissioners of Police in every state to safeguard the rights of protesters and journalists.

Journalists covering the nationwide protests were given unhindered access, escorted where necessary, and treated with absolute respect. No other IGP has demonstrated such deliberate openness towards media operations during civil demonstrations. This is a historical fact.

Therefore, to suggest that IGP Egbetokun is “hostile to journalists” is not only false but fundamentally misleading.

Mr. Mojeed also got it wrong when he alleged that the IGP “allowed systematic oppression of journalists through unnecessary arrests by the police, right under his watch.”
This is a sweeping generalization that fails to acknowledge the fundamental realities of policing and the rule of law.

For the avoidance of doubt: the Nigeria Police Force is the principal law enforcement and lead security agency in Nigeria. Its core responsibilities include enforcing laws, maintaining public order and safety, and preventing and detecting crime nationwide. In carrying out these duties, the police are legally obligated to enforce valid court orders, regardless of the profession, social status, or public profile of individuals involved.

Every journalist arrest cited by Mr. Mojeed was tied to a court order or a criminal complaint backed by legal directives. The police do not possess the discretion to ignore court orders simply because the subject of the order is a journalist.

To do so would amount to a breakdown of the rule of law and an invitation to institutional anarchy.

What IPI Nigeria should champion is due process, not the shielding of journalists from lawful procedures.

It is also important to state that IGP Egbetokun has been one of the most media-friendly Inspector-Generals of Police the Force has ever produced. Under his leadership:

  • Journalists have enjoyed unprecedented access to police authorities.
  • Press inquiries receive timely responses.
  • Media practitioners are regularly briefed on security updates and operational developments.
  • Engagements with media organizations have increased significantly to ensure transparency and mutual understanding.

Far from hostility, the Egbetokun era has been marked by openness, collaboration, and respect for press freedom, within the confines of the law.

The attempt by IPI Nigeria to vilify the IGP not only ignores these truths but also undermines the constructive relationship that currently exists between the media and the Nigeria Police Force. It is essential that organizations like IPI exercise responsibility, verify claims, and avoid politicizing sensitive national security matters.

IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun deserves commendation, not condemnation, for fostering one of the most media-friendly policing environments Nigeria has seen in recent times.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com 08166240846

SDGs: Nigeria Moves To Fix Development Financing Gaps Through INFF

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SDGs: Nigeria Moves To Fix Development Financing Gaps Through INFF

Nigeria’s push to strengthen the foundations of sustainable development financing received a major boost in Lagos as government leaders, development partners, private sector institutions, and civil society organisations converged for a three-day retreat dedicated to deepening the implementation of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF). Held from 24 to 26 November 2025, the retreat focused squarely on translating the INFF from a policy framework into a practical, results-driven instrument capable of mobilising resources for national priorities and accelerating progress on the SDGs.

Described as one of the most important meetings on Nigeria’s financing future in recent years, the retreat, themed: “Deepening the Implementation of Nigeria’s Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF): Lessons, Opportunities and Next Steps,” sought to chart a bold path for financing the nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and National Development Plan. It was to confront Nigeria’s persistent financing gaps and propose actionable solutions to strengthen domestic revenue, attract private investment, and improve coordination across federal and state levels. Participants agreed that Nigeria’s financing challenges cannot be solved through public resources alone and that the INFF must serve as a unifying structure for aligning public, private, domestic, and external financing. This guiding vision shaped all deliberations and produced a set of clear, practical outcomes.

According to a statement released by Desmond Utomwen, Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications in OSSAP-SDGs, a key highlight was the strong call for sub-national integration. Participants noted that most development challenges—and opportunities—reside at the state level, yet financing strategies remain heavily federal-centric. The retreat therefore resolved that the INFF must embed tailored state-level approaches, improve FAAC utilisation, and support states with capacity, investment readiness, and project preparation.

Part of the outcomes includes the unanimous recommendation for establishing a National Project Preparation Facility to help states and MDAs convert ideas into bankable projects capable of attracting investors. This will ensure that good ideas do not die as a result of lack of structuring.

Participants also noted that political commitment at the highest level is essential to restore investor confidence, stressing that the National Steering Committee of the INFF must take a more visible, active role in driving reforms, especially around tax policy, investment alignment, and public finance restructuring. Development partners, including the European Union, noted that investors still question the tangible impact of the INFF and urged stronger government co-financing to demonstrate ownership.

The meeting, which was co-chaired by the OSSAP-SDGs, UNDP and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning also reaffirmed the need to scale innovative financing models such as blended finance, green bonds, impact investment, and Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and underscored that improved transparency, efficient procurement systems, digitalised tax administration, and strengthened monitoring and evaluation are indispensable for expanding fiscal space and ensuring accountability.

The European Union delegation echoed this urgency. Representing the EU, Mr. Reuben Alba-Aguilera warned that Nigeria cannot rely solely on public revenue to meet its development needs. “While public finance remains fundamental, it cannot on its own bridge Nigeria’s widening financing gaps,” he said, adding that innovative partnerships, blended finance tools, and private sector mobilisation are now indispensable. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to governance, climate action, and public finance reforms, describing the INFF as a vital platform for aligning finance with national priorities.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, highlighted Nigeria’s progress in institutionalising the INFF, noting that Development Finance Assessments and national coordination structures are already in place. She described the framework as a roadmap for “mobilising resources more prudently, effectively and inclusively,” but admitted that challenges persist, especially in domestic resource mobilisation and aligning external finance with national needs.

Experts from UNDP, the Bank of Industry, CSEA, FIRS, and several private sector institutions delivered technical presentations that underscored Nigeria’s financing gaps but also illuminated promising opportunities. UNDP’s Tony Muhumuza emphasised the need for coherence in financing systems, while BOI Chairman, Dr. Mansur Mukhtar, stressed that public finance reforms are essential for building trust and catalysing investment.

Also speaking, the Co-Chair of the INFF Core Working Group, Mr. Felix Okonkwo described the INFF as the nation’s “strategic vehicle for orchestrating and mobilising resources across public and private quadrants.”

The retreat provided a rare opportunity for stakeholders to shift from theoretical discussions to problem-solving, with participants resolving to move from theory to practice and confront implementation bottlenecks head-on.

Sowore’s Tired Antics Against IGP Egbetokun Have Become A National Embarrassment

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Sowore’s Tired Antics Against IGP Egbetokun Have Become A National Embarrassment

By Danjuma Lamido

Once again, Nigeria’s serial presidential aspirant, Omoyele Sowore, has resorted to his familiar pattern of reckless outbursts, this time at the Federal High Court, where he blurted out, “I am disappointed in the Nigeria Police Force IG, Egbetokun.”

To anyone who has followed Sowore’s theatrics over the years, this latest episode is unsurprising. What is surprising, however, is how a man who has contested for president twice, yet has not mastered even basic decorum, still imagines that Nigerians take him seriously.

For months, Sowore has obsessively fixated on calling IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun an “illegal IGP”, repeating the line so frequently that it now sounds like political noise rather than a reasoned argument. He shouts, he postures, and he blusters, but he has never dared to challenge the IGP’s tenure in court.

If Sowore believes his own claims, the courts are open. Nigerians are waiting. But the man prefers press tantrums to legal clarity.

The Law Is Clear: Egbetokun’s Tenure Is Fully Backed By The Police Act 2020

Sowore’s claims crumble under the weight of very simple facts.

Section 7(6) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020 explicitly states that a person appointed as Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for a four-year term.

This provision gives the IGP a legally protected tenure, one that is not tied to retirement age and can be affirmed by the President through a letter of appointment.

Furthermore, Section 18(8a) reinforces this by providing that the IGP remains in office until the end of that four-year tenure, as stipulated by the letter of appointment.

There is no ambiguity. There is no illegality. There is nothing to contest, at least not for anyone who has read the law.

So all the shouting outside courtrooms and on social media is nothing but political theatre.

Who Benefits From Sowore’s Attacks?

It is hard to ignore the whispers circulating within police and civic circles: that certain disgruntled individuals may be nudging Sowore to create chaos and damage the reputation of the IGP, hoping to position themselves for personal advantage.

Whether this is true or not, what is obvious is that Sowore’s statements regularly align with the interests of those who hope to undermine ongoing reforms in the Nigeria Police Force.

Sowore has long been associated with sensationalism and aggressive journalism through Sahara Reporters. Critics argue that he often relies on dramatic accusations rather than verified facts, a habit that seems to be spilling into his political commentary.

Egbetokun Remains Unbothered And Focused On Reforms

Thankfully, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has refused to be distracted by these noisy attempts to provoke him. While Sowore is busy with outbursts, Egbetokun is busy reforming the Nigeria Police Force with clarity and purpose.

His leadership has been marked by a bold effort to professionalise the police, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen community trust. Under his watch:

  • Police capacity is being massively upgraded through modern training
  • Officers are being equipped with improved tools and contemporary policing technology
  • Proactive, intelligence-driven strategies are being used to combat crime
  • Welfare improvements are helping boost morale
  • Accountability measures are expanding to rebuild public confidence

This is the work of a man focused on nation-building, not on trading insults with political performers.

Conclusion

While Sowore continues to chase attention through inflammatory remarks, IGP Egbetokun continues to work, quietly, steadily, and lawfully, to build a police force that is more professional, more disciplined, and more trusted by the Nigerian people.

Nigeria needs reformers, not noise-makers. And on this score, the difference between both men could not be clearer.

 

Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com

FCT Police Arrest Car-Snatching Syndicate, Recover Six Stolen Vehicles And ₦15m Cash

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FCT Police Arrest Car-Snatching Syndicate, Recover Six Stolen Vehicles And ₦15m Cash

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested four members of a notorious armed robbery and car-snatching syndicate operating across Abuja, recovering six stolen vehicles and more than ₦15 million in cash.

According to a statement signed by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the breakthrough followed credible intelligence and digital forensic analysis carried out by operatives from Jabi, Gwagwalada, and Mabushi Police Divisions, which led to the initial recovery of three stolen vehicles. The Command’s Scorpion Squad later widened the investigation, arresting additional suspects and recovering three more vehicles.

The vehicles recovered include a black Toyota Prado SUV (2008 model, RSH 967 JJ), a grey Kia Optima (2009 model, RMY 88 AA), and a grey Toyota Corolla recovered by divisional operatives. The Scorpion Squad also recovered another grey Toyota Corolla (JUX 890 AA), an ash-coloured Toyota Camry (APR 459 AE), and a black Toyota Corolla (578 AA).

Four suspects, Dalhatu Bashiru (an ex-convict), Nwadigo Emmanuel, Uchenna Kalu, and Alhaji Jazuli Adamu, were arrested in connection with the syndicate. Police said the principal receiver, Adamu, was apprehended in Fagge LGA of Kano State with ₦15,280,000 allegedly intended for the purchase of the latest batch of stolen vehicles.

Investigations further revealed that Adamu allegedly works with an accomplice, Alhaji Abdulkarim Gabeida Ibrahim, a Nigerien national resident in the Niger Republic, who reportedly coordinates the sale of stolen vehicles across the border. He remains at large as efforts continue to track him down.

All suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody, while the Command intensifies efforts to arrest fleeing members of the gang.

FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, commended the officers involved in the successful operation and urged vehicle owners to install functional tracking devices to aid prompt recovery in case of theft.

He also called on residents to continue supporting police efforts by providing credible information through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913 and 08061581938.

Edo State To Host Niger Delta Sports Festival, Lauds NDDC

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Edo State To Host Niger Delta Sports Festival, Lauds NDDC

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for offering the state the hosting rights of the 2026 Niger Delta Sports Festival.

Senator Okpebholo gave the commendation when the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, led a team of the Commission’s officials, including the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, the Edo State Representative on the Board of the Commission, Hon. Patrick Aisoweiorem, and other Directors, on a courtesy visit to the Government House, Benin City.

Governor Okpegholo acknowledged the achievements recorded by the NDDC in recent times, noting a positive turnaround in the execution of projects in Edo State.

The Governor said the Niger Delta Sports Festival would harness the youth’s potential, promote unity and community development in the Niger Delta region.

He commended the NDDC for initiating the sports festival, which he said had provided a platform to bring young sports talents from the region together. According to him, “this praiseworthy initiative would foster youth development, promote peace, and contribute to economic growth.”

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo (2nd left); the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, (2nd right); the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye (left) and the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa (right), during a courtesy visit to Edo State Government House, Benin.

In his remarks, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, affirmed that the Commission was engaging all stakeholders to ensure harmony and cooperation in the development of the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku urged state governors in the Niger Delta region to increase their collaboration with the NDDC to promote economic and sustainable development in the oil-rich region.

The NDDC boss restated the importance of stakeholder engagements, which he noted was a key pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He observed that events like sports festivals were not just about competition but also about unity, development, and the discovery of homegrown talents.

Ogbuku stated, “We are all united by a common problem, such as environmental challenges. We should leverage sports as a uniting factor.”

The Managing Director noted that previous partnerships had been very beneficial to the Niger Delta region. He recalled that the NDDC successfully executed the 27.5-kilometre Ogbia-Nembe Road, constructed in collaboration with Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC.

He noted that the Commission recently completed the emergency reconstruction of the Irrua-Ewu-Agbede Road in Uhunwonde/Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Ogbuku explained that the Irrua-Aviele project would link up with the Benin-Irrua road project being executed by the Federal Ministry of Works.

He acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, describing him as an excellent motivator for many achievements recorded by the NDDC.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mr Desmond Enabulele, said that the state was peaceful and rich in culture. He thanked the state governor for his massive support for sports development in the state.

AMAC Issues Strict Warning to Advertisers, Cites Court Ruling To Affirm Control Over Signpost Revenue

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AMAC Issues Strict Warning to Advertisers, Cites Court Ruling To Affirm Control Over Signpost Revenue

The long-standing legal tussle over the right to collect revenue from signposts and outdoor advertising in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has taken a new turn, with the Area Council issuing a definitive warning to the public to desist from making payments to the FCT’s Department of Outdoor Advertising and Signage (DOAS).

​In a comprehensive statement released today, Kingsley Madaki, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to the Executive Chairman of AMAC Hon Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, asserted that recent court rulings have unequivocally affirmed its constitutional authority to regulate and collect revenue from all such advertising units within its jurisdiction.

​Judicial Backing for AMAC

​The Area Council emphasised that the authority to control signposts (hoardings) and outdoor advertising and collect associated rates and permits is legally entrusted to the AMAC Signpost Unit, not DOAS.

​”The public is hereby informed that the Court has clearly defined the constitutional provision that entrusted the regulations and control of SIGNPOST (HOARDING) AND OUTDOOR ADVERTISING, and its payments for the rates and permits therein should be to AMAC SIGNPOST UNIT, not DOAS,” the statement read.

​AMAC specifically cited a recent ruling delivered by the Presiding Judge, His Worship, Sunday A. A. Adukwu, of the FCT Magistrate Court on November 27, 2025, as the latest judgement affirming the council’s constitutional role.

​Warning Against DOAS Payments

​The Council’s statement serves as a clear caution to businesses and advertising practitioners, advising them to avoid any dealings with the rival FCT Department.

​”The Public are hereby advised to ignore the consultant and Staff of DOAS who may parade themselves as working for AMAC or AMMC because there are several Court Judgements that affirmed the AMAC constitutional role,” the council warned.
​AMAC stressed that as a law-abiding tier of government, it respects the judiciary’s interpretation of the Constitution.

Therefore, any payment made to DOAS for signpost or outdoor advertising permits within AMAC’s area would be deemed invalid.

​Compliance and Enforcement Threat

​The AMAC authorities are now demanding immediate compliance from all advertising users.

​”Hence, we expect the outdoor advertising users in AMAC to comply with our demand notices for 2025, 2026 and forward to avoid enforcement of AMAC BYE-LAW,” the council declared.

​This final clause signals the AMAC Signpost Unit’s intention to begin rigorous enforcement actions against defaulters who fail to pay their outstanding and current rates directly to the Area Council, potentially leading to the sealing of businesses or removal of non-compliant signages.

The move is expected to escalate the inter-governmental revenue dispute within the FCT

Integrity Youth Alliance Faults IPI Over Blacklisting Of IGP Egbetokun

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Integrity Youth Alliance Faults IPI Over Blacklisting Of IGP Egbetokun

The Integrity Youth Alliance has criticised the International Press Institute (IPI) for blacklisting the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, during the organisation’s annual conference held on Tuesday in Abuja.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the group described the IPI’s action, based on allegations of continued police harassment and attacks on journalists, as biased and uninformed. It argued that the decision failed to reflect the IGP’s ongoing engagement with the media and reforms undertaken since he assumed office.

According to the Alliance, branding the IGP as culpable for “media repression” shows a disconnect between the IPI’s claims and the reality of Egbetokun’s leadership. It noted that the police chief has maintained an open relationship with the media, routinely holding consultations and reaffirming his commitment to press freedom.

The group highlighted that Egbetokun has consistently encouraged media scrutiny and never attempted to suppress criticism, instead promoting collaboration aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and public trust in the police.

It added that the IGP has repeatedly recognised journalists as vital partners in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and has stressed the need for cooperation in combating misinformation.

Describing the IPI’s statement that the IGP has “failed to uphold his constitutional duties” as misleading, the Integrity Youth Alliance said the claim contradicts visible efforts by the police leadership to build a more transparent and people-oriented force.

The group urged the IPI to review its position, engage with verifiable facts, and resist politicising sensitive issues relating to press freedom.

The Integrity Youth Alliance reaffirmed its confidence in IGP Egbetokun’s commitment to safeguarding journalists, supporting free expression, and upholding democratic values.

Delta Police Neutralise Suspected Kidnapper, Recover Weapons In Multiple Operations

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Delta Police Neutralise Suspected Kidnapper, Recover Weapons In Multiple Operations

The Delta State Police Command has achieved significant breakthroughs in its sustained offensive against criminal gangs across the state, resulting in the death of a suspected kidnapper, the arrest of several armed robbery and cult-related suspects, and the recovery of multiple arms and ammunition.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the operatives for their gallantry and also appreciated community stakeholders for continually providing credible intelligence that enhances the command’s crime-fighting efforts.

Suspected Kidnapper Killed, AK-47 Rifle Recovered

In the early hours of December 1, 2025, operatives of the State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU), supported by community volunteers, acted on intelligence indicating that suspected kidnappers were converging in the Obiaruku forest to launch an attack.
On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire from multiple directions. The officers returned fire, leading to the death of one suspect, while others escaped with injuries.

Items recovered from the scene include:

  • One AK-47 rifle
  • Forty-two rounds of live ammunition
  • Nine mobile phones
  • Assorted charms

Armed Robbery/Cult Gang Dismantled, Firearms and Stolen Tricycles Recovered

Between November 28 and 29, 2025, the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, recorded major successes in operations across Ughelli, Oghara, and Sapele.

Acting on intelligence around the Ekuigbo axis, operatives arrested a key suspect, Kelvin Oke (42), and recovered a stolen tricycle.

Further coordinated raids led to the arrest of Victor Oyaye (26), the alleged gang leader, and Monday Emakpo (31). Another stolen tricycle and a locally made shotgun loaded with six live cartridges were recovered.

Sustaining the tempo, CP-SAT operatives stormed the Ogharake, Oghara residence of Jeffery Saint (28) on November 29. The suspect attempted to flee but was arrested. A search of his premises led to the recovery of:

  • One locally fabricated Beretta pistol
  • Fifteen rounds of live ammunition

Eagle Net Squad Arrests Suspect, Recovers Pistol and Cartridges

On November 29, 2025, operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad, led by SP Danyaya Inusa, apprehended Ezekiel Edeya (28) during a stop-and-search operation near Northwest Filling Station by Mariam Babangida Junction on the Asaba–Benin Expressway.

The suspect attempted to flee but was caught. A red handbag he tried to discard was recovered, containing:

  • One locally fabricated pistol
  • Three live cartridges
  • An iron plier
  • One screwdriver

All suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun And The Unforgettable Celebration Of 70 Years Of Women In Policing

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IGP Kayode Egbetokun And The Unforgettable Celebration Of 70 Years Of Women In Policing

By Adewole Kehinde

As Nigeria commemorates 70 years of women in policing, it is important to pause and reflect on the remarkable journey, from the modest beginnings of 1955 to the transformational strides witnessed in 2025.

This year’s celebration, themed “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honouring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future,” is not just a ceremonial milestone; it is a tribute to generations of brave women who defied limitations and a testament to the visionary leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

When the first set of women enlisted into the Nigerian Police Force in 1955, they were just 20 courageous pioneers, trailblazers who entered a profession that barely gave them space to grow. Their roles were severely restricted.

They were recruited primarily as tea girls, telephone operators, and officers responsible for helping children cross the road on their way to school. They were not allowed to carry arms, and certainly not considered for operational assignments.

It was a policing system that mirrored the societal biases of the time.

But today, thanks to deliberate and progressive reforms under the leadership of IGP Kayode Egbetokun, the picture is profoundly different. Nigerian women in policing are no longer passive participants; they are full-fledged operational officers. We now proudly boast of female Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police, as well as women leading critical commands and institutions across the country.

This transformation did not happen by accident. It happened because Egbetokun chose to champion inclusion.

One of the most commendable steps under his leadership is the commitment to expunge discriminatory provisions from the Police Act and police regulations, policies that historically hindered women’s progression. Furthermore, the launch of the Nigeria Police Force Gender Policy last year marked a groundbreaking advancement.

The policy outlines eight strategic objectives, including increasing women’s participation in leadership, strengthening the fight against gender-based violence, and closing the gender gap at all levels of the Force.

IGP Egbetokun has also gone beyond policy statements. Under his guidance, a bill has been presented at the National Assembly seeking to expand the women’s recruitment quota, ensuring that 15 to 20 per cent of recruits are women. This is a progressive step toward gender equity in a field long dominated by men.

Perhaps one of the most symbolic demonstrations of trust in women officers under this administration is the appointment of female senior officers to head Police College Ikeja, Police College Kaduna, and Police College Oji River.

Entrusting the training and grooming of Nigeria’s next generation of police officers to women is nothing short of phenomenal. It signals confidence, capability, and a new era of policing excellence.

As we celebrate the 70th anniversary, the Nigerian public must also play its role. Our women police officers are not just officers; they are also mothers, wives, family pillars, and community builders. Society’s expectations of them are enormous, sometimes even unfairly so.

We must support them, appreciate them, and acknowledge their sacrifices. The progress we see today is because they have given their all to serve their nation with dignity, courage, and resilience.

This year’s celebrations capture the essence of service, impact, and community engagement. Activities include:

  • School outreach programmes
  • Career talks for young girls
  • A 5-kilometre walk against gender-based violence
  • Distribution of hygiene packs to 1,000 girls
  • A special all-female workday showcasing the operational competence of women police officers

The festivities will culminate in a grand finale on December 4, a ceremony dedicated to honouring pioneering female officers and celebrating the exceptional women currently serving in the Force. The presence of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as the Special Guest of Honour, affirms the national importance of this milestone.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun deserves commendation for charting a new course for women in policing, one defined not by limitations but by limitless possibilities. His reforms are reshaping the Nigeria Police Force into an institution where women can lead, inspire, and influence real change.

As we celebrate 70 years of courage and service, we honour not just the past but the future, a future where Nigerian women in policing stand tall, empowered, and unstoppable.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com X: @kennyadewole

Zone 7 Commences Promotion Assessment For Police Inspectors

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Zone 7 Commences Promotion Assessment For Police Inspectors

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, AIG Victor Olaiya, has flagged off the Departmental Selection Board (DSB) exercise for the promotion of police inspectors from the FCT and Niger State Commands. The assessment is being conducted in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

According to a press release signed by the Zone 7 Headquarters Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Halima Mohammed, speaking at the opening session held at the Zonal Headquarters on Tuesday, AIG Olaiya charged the participating inspectors to approach the exercise with dedication, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility. He described the promotion process as a crucial pathway for career progression within the Nigeria Police Force, assuring candidates that the Zone is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and procedurally compliant assessment.

AIG Olaiya reiterated the IGP’s uncompromising stance against corruption, warning that any form of extortion, inducement, or attempt to compromise the process would attract strict disciplinary action in accordance with police regulations. He emphasised that the Force would not tolerate any conduct capable of undermining the integrity of the promotion exercise.

The AIG also commended the Inspector-General of Police for prioritising merit and transparency in the promotion system, noting that the ongoing reforms continue to strengthen professionalism and inspire officers across ranks.

Zone 7, he added, remains committed to upholding excellence, accountability, and ethical standards in all its operations.

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