Egbetokun Bows Out As IGP, Says Police Story Continues

Retired inspector-general of police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun has formally bade farewell to the Nigerian Police Force in Abuja at a pull-out ceremony held on Thursday, marking the conclusion of a distinguished career spanning 36 years.

Speaking at the event, Egbetokun reflected on his tenure, saying: “Leadership of the Nigerian police force is therefore never the story of one individual, but the unfolding story of an institution in constant service to the nation.”

He further stated that the progress of the force is a result of collective effort, professionalism, and institutional continuity.

Speaking on his achievements, Egbetokun stated that he strengthened institutional processes and operational capacity to respond to contemporary security challenges; Upgraded the Intelligence Bureau to a full department headed by a Deputy Inspector-General; Elevated the legal and medical units to directorate status for improved efficiency; Expanded the Cyber Crime Centre to enhance nationwide investigations; Established additional police mobile squadrons, area commands, and divisions to bring policing closer to communities; and created the Special Intervention Squad, which recorded notable operational successes across the country.

He also listed some infrastructural achievements, which included the completion of police headquarters in Kano and Kaduna, commissioning of modern facilities in Ogun and Adamawa, and the federal government’s approval for police colleges to run academic programs leading to national diplomas.

He urged his successor, IGP Olatunji Disu, to continue advancing the force and building on the reforms and achievements of his tenure.

The former IGP expressed his gratitude to the president, the minister of police affairs, the leadership of the national assembly, sister security agencies, local and international partners, and his family for their support throughout his career.

According to him, “Though I may leave active duty, my respect, loyalty, and commitment to this great institution will remain unwavering. Service to the Nigerian police force is not merely a profession, but a lifelong calling.”

The event attracted a distinguished gathering of senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, service chiefs, heads of sister security agencies, traditional rulers, retired and serving police officers, and members of the press.