By Adewole Kehinde
“Professional is not a label you give yourself—it’s a description you hope others will apply to you.” – David Maister
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has for decades struggled with a legacy of mistrust, inefficiency, and public discontent. However, in the face of this daunting reputation, one man appears determined to rewrite the narrative: Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
Since he assumed office, Egbetokun has demonstrated not just intent but decisive action toward transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a more professional, accountable, and citizen-focused institution that aligns with global policing standards.
Policing in the 21st century has moved beyond brute force and reactionary tactics; it now thrives on community engagement, intelligence-led strategies, technological integration, and respect for human rights. IGP Egbetokun, to his credit, seems well aware of this global shift. His leadership has been marked by pragmatic reforms that prioritise professionalism, ethical conduct, and institutional transparency.
One of the boldest moves under his administration is the commitment to retraining and reorienting police personnel. Recognising that poor conduct among officers often stems from inadequate training and a lack of accountability, Egbetokun initiated reforms at the training colleges and launched performance-based evaluation mechanisms.
The introduction of a modern policing curriculum, including modules on human rights, emotional intelligence, and forensic science, is a step in the right direction, one that many of his predecessors paid lip service to but never followed through on.
In line with global best practices, the IGP has emphasised the use of technology and data in crime fighting. The deployment of surveillance drones, crime-mapping tools, and digital crime databases reflects an understanding that policing in the digital age must evolve. With Nigeria facing complex challenges like cybercrime, terrorism, kidnapping, and cultism, these reforms are not just necessary; they are urgent.
Egbetokun’s approach to community policing is also commendable. In regions where the trust gap between police and citizens is wide, he has prioritised partnership with community leaders, religious institutions, and local vigilante groups. The community policing initiative is being reinvigorated to serve as a bridge, not a barrier, between law enforcement and the people they serve. This is a fundamental shift from the past, where the police often operated like an occupying force rather than public servants.
Accountability is another hallmark of his leadership. By encouraging internal disciplinary mechanisms and supporting the prosecution of errant officers, Egbetokun is gradually restoring the credibility of the Force. The dismissal and prosecution of officers involved in extortion, brutality, and unlawful killings sends a strong message that misconduct will no longer be swept under the rug.
Moreover, his recent endorsement of reward-based policing, where officers are recognised and celebrated for exemplary service, shows a balanced strategy—one that penalises wrongdoing but also encourages excellence.
The public celebration of officers who rejected bribes or went beyond the call of duty is a model borrowed from some of the world’s most respected police institutions, and it’s already boosting morale among rank-and-file personnel.
However, while these reforms are promising, the journey to global standards is a marathon, not a sprint. Structural challenges like poor remuneration, lack of adequate logistics, political interference, and institutional corruption remain formidable hurdles. But what sets Egbetokun apart is his apparent resolve to confront these issues head-on, rather than pretend they don’t exist.
For Nigeria to have a police force that meets international benchmarks, reforms must be sustained, well-funded, and protected from political sabotage. Civil society, the media, and the citizenry must also play their parts in demanding accountability and supporting reformative efforts.
In IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Nigeria has a police chief who not only understands the problems but is actively working toward solutions. His leadership may not instantly cure all the ills of the Nigeria Police, but it is undoubtedly laying the groundwork for a future where the Force can stand tall among its global peers.
The transformation of the Nigeria Police may finally be underway, and for once, there is reason to be hopeful.
Adewole Kehinde is a Public Affairs Analyst & Security Commentator. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
