The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the welfare and operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force, declaring that adequate funding for the agency will remain a key focus in national budgeting.
This assurance was given by Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the 2025 Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations ceremony held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Tinubu praised the dedication and sacrifices of police officers across the country and assured stakeholders that the National Assembly would stop at nothing to appropriate necessary funds for modern equipment, improved welfare packages, and capacity development to strengthen the force’s efficiency.
He also noted that the National Police Day celebration has laid a foundation for national reflection and recognition of the sacrifices made by police officers.
“April 7 now stands as a historic day—a day of honour and remembrance for officers who risk their lives daily to keep us safe,” Tinubu said.
He lauded the Nigeria Police Force’s self-driven acquisition of the “Mobo Base” mobile unit at no cost to the government, describing it as a sign of innovation and resilience.
He also assured officers of continued support from the legislature, particularly in areas of welfare, logistics, and manpower development.
“On behalf of the National Assembly, we will stop at nothing to appropriate the necessary funds to improve not just the welfare but the operational strength of our police,” he pledged.
While congratulating the honorees, Tinubu emphasized that policing should be rooted in integrity, accountability, and service, not intimidation or abuse.
“The power you wield is not for oppression but for the protection of lives and property. Uphold the rule of law, reject corruption, and be worthy custodians of public trust”, he said.
Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police, in his welcome address, applauded the transparent and rigorous process that led to the selection of awardees.
He said nominations came from across the country and were vetted through an independent committee in collaboration with Lenders Consult International, with the final selections made solely on merit and impact.
“The officers we celebrate tonight earned this recognition through uncommon courage, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication. They have become the standard-bearers of a redefined Nigeria Police Force”, Egbetokun said.
He called on all police officers to see the awards not as the end but as a call to higher service, and he honored the memory of fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“Let history record that in this moment, the Nigeria Police Force recommitted itself to greatness,” he declared.
Egbetokun emphasized the importance of embracing digital intelligence, community policing, and inter-agency cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security threats.
In his goodwill message, Ibrahim Gaidam, Minister of Police Affairs, praised the ongoing reforms within the police force and pledged continued government support for security institutions.
“This initiative is not just commendable—it is transformational. We will continue to support the police with the resources and policy backing required to thrive”, he said.
He recalled his time as a senior police officer over 15 years ago and expressed satisfaction at the progress made in recognizing and motivating officers.
Governor Hope, Governor of Imo State, who also addressed the gathering, offered a deeply personal tribute to the police, recounting the dark period when Imo was nearly overrun by criminal gangs.
“There was a time in Imo State when we thought it was the end of the world. The police and other security agencies worked tirelessly, many paid with their lives to save our state,” Uzodinma said.
He urged citizens to continue offering moral and logistical support to security agencies and called on the federal government to provide sustainable funding to strengthen democracy and national security.
The Nigeria Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony served not only as a platform for honouring outstanding officers but also as a renewed national conversation on the role of policing in a democratic society.
From constables to commissioners, award recipients were praised as embodiments of courage, integrity, and service.
“The transformation of the Nigerian police force is not a slogan. It is a daily commitment. And you, the Nigerian people, are our most important partners in that journey”, Egbetokun noted.
