Tinubu pledges comprehensive reforms for Nigeria Police Force, declares April 7 Police Day

Abdullateef Fowewe

President Bola Tinubu has institutionalised April 7 as National Police Day to honour fallen heroes and recognise the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking at the maiden National Police Day celebration at Eagle Square in Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the police into a well-trained, motivated, and technologically equipped force to combat crime effectively.

The President outlined plans to improve police welfare, including housing, healthcare, education for officers’ families, and upgrading operational tools. He emphasized that these reforms are vital for ensuring national security and prosperity.

This was gathered in a statement obtained on Monday from the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha.

Quoting Tinubu from the statement, he said, “As President, I reaffirm this administration’s steadfast dedication to the welfare and empowerment of the Nigeria Police Force. A secure Nigeria is vital for our collective prosperity, and this vision begins with ensuring that our police force is well-equipped, well-trained, and well-motivated.

“We are resolute in our commitment to police welfare and comprehensive reform. To that end, let me assure you that the Federal Government of Nigeria will institutionalise 7th April as an annual celebration of National Police Day, cementing its place in our national calendar and demonstrating our enduring appreciation for the Nigeria Police Force.”

The President outlined decisive measures his administration is currently putting in place to immediately engender an effective and formidable police force, including provision of modern tools and technology to enhance the operations of the force, as well as adequate accommodations, accessible healthcare and quality education for families of police personnel.

“In this light, we are taking decisive steps to improve the conditions under which our police officers serve. Adequate housing, accessible healthcare, and quality education for your children are priorities we are committed to fulfilling.

“These promises will begin to materialise immediately. We are also determined to equip you with modern tools and technology to enhance your effectiveness in combating crime. Furthermore, we will ensure that your salaries and benefits reflect the gravity of your responsibilities and the risks you face daily. Anything less would be unacceptable,” he noted.

Tinubu assured Nigerians that his government “will leave no stone unturned in ensuring effective policing, the safety of lives and property, and the resolution of internal security challenges such as banditry, insurgency, and kidnapping,” maintaining that the administration remains resolute in its mission to restore peace and security across all regions of the country.

Underlining the role of the NPF, the President described the force as a cornerstone of the nation’s security, the first line of defence against crime, even as he maintained that the police are protectors of the nation’s democracy and the custodians of citizens’ safety.

“Your role is indispensable, and your contributions are immeasurable. Why have we established National Police Day? The answer is straightforward. This day serves to highlight your invaluable service and to honour the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

“To their families, we extend our deepest condolences and our unwavering commitment to preserving their legacy. Let it be clear: 7th April is not merely a date on the calendar. It is a symbol of our enduring partnership and respect for the Nigeria Police Force—a day firmly entrenched in our national consciousness,” Tinubu added.

He thereby commended the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and his team for what he described as “their remarkable work in advancing reforms aligned with” his administration’s goals, noting that the dedication and commitment of the leadership of the force “are paving the way for a police force that all Nigerians can take pride in.”

Earlier, Egbetokun said beyond commemoration of the day of the establishment of the NPF, the National Police Day offers opportunity to remember fallen heroes and also acknowledge the heroics of men and women of the Police in theatres of operation across the country and beyond.

The IGP said the day also provides a platform to emphasise the renewed call for excellence, professionalism, and respect for human rights, among other virtues that the new police force embodies.

He highlighted the reform agenda of the police force under his leadership, noting that the reforms are hinged on building a force that commands trust and professionalism, enforces justice and promotes national development through enhanced security and policing of the country.

The highpoints of the event were the inspection of the guard by the Vice President, procession by tactical units and other security organisations, and the silent drill display by officers of the NPF.

Also present at the event were the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs, Hon Makki Yallemen and other members of the National Assembly; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa and other Service Chiefs.

Others include Deputy Governors of Delta, Ondo and Enugu States; heads of security and paramilitary organisations; representatives of the Minister of Police Affairs, the Police Service Commission, former Inspectors General of Police and retired senior police officers, among others.