President Bola Tinubu has said his administration remains committed to transforming the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.
Tinubu made the remarks in an address read on his behalf by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, at the second edition of the Police Award and Commendation ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday.
“My administration remains steadfast in its commitment to the transformation of the Nigeria Police Force and indeed transforming other security agencies.
“We understand that modern policing demands modern tools, continuous training, intelligence-led strategies and community partnership.
“We will continue to invest in the provision of cutting-edge equipment, technological support, capacity-building programmes and welfare schemes aimed at enhancing professional efficiency and boosting morale across the rank and file.
“While the Federal government will continue to do its part, I must also charge every police officer, regardless of rank or posting, to uphold the sacred trust bestowed upon you by the Nigerian people.
“Be reminded that the power you wield is not for intimidation but for protection. It is not for abuse but for service to your fatherland.
“You must be guided by the highest standard of accountability and professionalism. Uphold the rule of law, protect the rights of every citizen and reject all forms of misconduct and corruption
“To award recipients today, I congratulate you warmly. You have made the nation proud. You have made your family proud.
“You have reminded us what is possible when duty meets dedication and when service is driven by honour, but I urge you, do not rest on your laurels.
“Let this recognition spur you to even greater heights. Let your example inspire others within the Force to emulate your discipline, your hard work, your professionalism and your integrity.
“The ceremony is more than a moment of celebration. It is a call to renewed service. It is a call to every officer in the Nigeria Police Force to reflect on the value we must uphold and the future we must build together as Nigerians,” Tinubu said.
Akpabio announced a personal donation of N5 million to the family of one of the awardees, Assistant Commissioner of Police Aniedi Cecilia Udoh, who died in active service in May 2025.
Udoh, who hailed from Akwa Ibom state, was until her death the area commander of Ahoada, Rivers state command and was awarded community policing advocate of the Year 2024.
Akpabio also recalled his passion for the Nigeria Police when, as a governor of Akwa Ibom state, he presented the Police with 350 Jeeps, fitted with communication equipment, four armoured personnel carriers, and some platforms for the Marine Police.
He also said he built a Police Mopol Base and Police Secondary School at no cost to the police, and as Senate President, he has completed 10 Police stations in his senatorial district.
“I’m not tired of doing things for the police. As Senate President, just to assure you on behalf of the National Assembly that we will stop at nothing to appropriate the requisite funds for the Police to improve not just the welfare but also the strength of its personnel in order to be able to police Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
In his welcome remarks, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the transformation of the Nigeria Police Force is not a slogan.
Rather, he said, the transformation “is a daily commitment, and you, the Nigerian people, are our most important partner in that journey. This occasion is not about laurels alone. It is about legacy. It reminds us that the business of policing is not transactional. It is transformational.”
