By Adewole Kehinde,
The appointment of IGP Kayode Egbetokun has proven to be a decision supported by results in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. From the beginning, Egbetokun has shown ability and practicality in providing professionalism throughout the Nigeria Police Force’s spheres of influence, establishing a tone that harmonises operational outcomes with leadership intent.
The intentional fusion of prominent, high-profile reforms with people-centred governance is what sets Egbetokun’s term apart. His strategy includes personnel-focused initiatives that have quickly recalibrated morale and accountability within the Force, as well as legal and health professionalisation.
Importantly, President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda is clearly aligned with these initiatives, which translate the national leadership philosophy into institutional practice.
The Inspector-General of Police has also quietly but firmly altered the narratives surrounding the fight against crime. The creation of the Special Intervention Squad, the extensive renovation of police barracks across the country, and the swift improvement of police infrastructure in an exceptionally short amount of time demonstrate a leadership that recognises the connection between security results and the well-being and preparedness of those entrusted with delivering them. In addition to improving operational effectiveness, these interventions have given the rank and file their dignity back.Â
The establishment of the Nigerian Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja, is one of Egbetokun’s most notable projects. This flagship project highlights his dedication to institutional memory, training, and capacity building. Alongside this, a number of other initiatives have been launched in Abuja and across police formations in Lagos and other states, demonstrating a national reform footprint as opposed to a capital-centric focus.
The outcomes are clear. The Nigeria Police Force has made notable progress in reducing crime under Egbetokun’s direction, including the successful rescue of over 1,581 kidnapped victims, the recovery of 1,984 firearms and 23,250 rounds of ammunition, and the arrest of 30,313 suspects. These represent lives saved, communities reassured, and confidence restored; they are more than just numbers.
Egbetokun has implemented reforms that go beyond enforcement in an effort to reposition the Force for public trust and operational excellence.
A shift towards proactive, intelligence-led policing appropriate for today’s security challenges has been marked by the adoption of modern technology and intelligence-gathering techniques, which have improved response times and threat anticipation.
Equally important is the renewed emphasis on institutional integrity. Under his watch, officers who demonstrate gallantry, professionalism, and integrity are publicly recognised and rewarded. The annual Nigeria Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony exemplifies this commitment to merit and excellence, reinforcing a culture where doing the right thing is celebrated and encouraged.
All things considered, Kayode Egbetokun’s accomplishments in personnel welfare and other Force departments demonstrate what is achievable when vision and decisive action are combined.
Nigerians can anticipate safer communities, a more professional police force, increased happiness for an even larger number of our citizens, and renewed hope in its purest form from his flank.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
