Tinubu Pledges To Deepen Investment In Police Training, Intelligence Gathering
By Sunday Etuka
President Bola Tinubu has pledged to deepen investment in police training, intelligence gathering, and modern law enforcement systems, as part of a broader plan to transform the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) into a world-class institution.
Speaking on Tuesday through his Vice President, Kashim Shettima, at the National Police Day Grand Parade and Procession in Abuja, President Tinubu, stated that no nation can make meaningful progress without a secure social environment.
“We will continue to support these reforms through sustained investment in training and capacity development, modern equipment and technology, improved intelligence and investigative capabilities, and better welfare and working conditions for police personnel.
“We are determined to build a Police Force that is well equipped, well trained, and well-motivated to confront the complex security challenges of our time,” the President stated.
President Tinubu, in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, observed that while history chooses to reward certain professions with applause, there are others which civilisation depend on to survive, “even when their labour is too often repaid with silence.”
He acknowledged the burden of sacrifice being shouldered by the police force, stressing that the country cannot afford to take such a sacrifice for granted because “every nation is only as safe as those who keep vigil while others sleep.”
Underscoring the need to empower the force, President Tinubu said, “Nigeria must strengthen those who protect the nation. Security is not simply the defence of territory or the prevention of crime. It is the first currency of progress.”
He noted that the observance of National Police Day, institutionalised last year, reflects the Federal Government’s deliberate recognition of the sacrifices made by police officers, adding that the administration remains resolute in strengthening the Police through concrete policy actions and sustained investment.
The President paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifice as part of the nation’s enduring moral inheritance.
His words: “Their sacrifice is written into the conscience of our country. Their memory must remain a lamp to those who wear this uniform today and to those who will wear it tomorrow. To their families, I extend the profound gratitude of a grateful nation.”
The Nigerian leader commended serving officers for their resilience and dedication in maintaining law and order across the country, often under difficult and dangerous conditions.
He further charged officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness and fidelity to the rule of law.
“The uniform you wear is not a licence for arbitrariness; it is a covenant of service. The badge on your chest is not an ornament of power; it is a reminder of duty,” President Tinubu declared, even as he demanded stronger collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agencies
Observing that effective policing must be rooted in trust and community partnership, he said, “When citizens and law enforcement stand on opposite sides of suspicion, insecurity thrives. This is why community-centred policing is a democratic necessity.”
The President reaffirmed the administration’s vision of building a police institution that embodies excellence, accountability, courage and service, while restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
In his address, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, said the police force, under his command, is deeply aware of expectations and concerns by the Nigerian people, stating that the approval of President Tinubu’s for the commemoration of the National Police Day is a commitment to the service of fallen and serving officers.
He acknowledged the risks, sacrifices and commitment of police officers nationwide, urging the NPF to rise above indiscipline, misconduct and every action that tarnishes the image and reputation of the force.
