President Bola Tinubu has declared the first week of April as Police week and the last day of the week April 7 as National Police Day to honour the selfless sacrifices and gallantry service of the Nigeria Police Force.
President Tinubu made the declaration on Monday, 15th April 2024 at the maiden edition of the Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Nigeria police officers which took place at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja.
the award ceremony of the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations held at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
The president who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima said that the federal government has approved the first week of April as police week and the last day of the week as National Police Day to honour the Police Force.
“The last day of the week, the 7th of April, is declared National Police Day in Nigeria,” the statement quoted Tinubu as saying.
The President said that a complete overhaul of the institutional mentality and memory of police officers is fundamental to his administration’s ongoing bid to transform the force into a modern, professional, and accountable institution.
He stressed the need to engage men and women of the force in training and capacity-building to equip them with the requisite expertise to carry out the arduous task of modern policing.
In his words, “This would ensure that police officers were equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and expertise required to tackle the complex challenges of modern policing, and the government would upgrade equipment and technology to enhance operational effectiveness and efficiency of the force.
“This includes acquiring fit-for-purpose equipment, weapons, ammunition, and armoured carriers to provide cover and protection for officers in combat situations. He noted.
President Tinubu recalled that the nation’s security architecture was being stretched beyond elastic limits, and the citizens had been able to endure in the face of security threats as well as attacks on their lives and livelihoods due to the commitment of the police.
“Your exemplary valour doesn’t only represent the pinnacle of patriotism that binds us but also instils confidence that brighter days lie just beyond the horizon,” President Tinubu added.
He said, “Our idea of a modern police force goes beyond superficial changes like repainting office buildings and residences or simply procuring firearms. The transformation we seek must transcend mere policy and infrastructure; it requires a fundamental overhaul of our institutional mentality and memory.”
In his goodwill message, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for recognizing the hard work, resilience and patriotism of the officers and men of the police force.
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam stated that Nigerians must recognize and appreciate the hard work and commitment of brave men and women who selflessly serve the people of Nigeria.
The Minister pointed out that Service is at the heart of the law enforcement profession and Police officers dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others, often putting themselves in harm’s way to ensure the safety of their communities.
In his words, “As we acknowledge the challenges and risks that our police officers face each day, we must also recognize the importance of supporting them in their mission. Providing proper training, resources, and support systems for our officers is essential to ensuring their well-being and effectiveness in their roles”.
Also in his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa has commended all the recipients of the Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony, noting that, 'Defeat Is Temporal, Victory is Forever, Police Officers are the Unsung Heroes, each one of you plays a vital role in upholding the values of justice, integrity, and respect for all.
According to General Musa, the award event marks a significant milestone in recognizing the exemplary service, and bravery demonstrated by our law enforcement officers.
He noted that in the face of challenges and adversity, police officers have displayed unwavering courage, professionalism, and commitment to public safety. They have gone above and beyond the call of duty, often placing themselves in harm's way to protect our communities and uphold the rule of law.
General Musa also said in every community, police officers are the unsung heroes who stand ready to protect and serve, often facing formidable challenges and difficult situations. Your professionalism, courage, and compassion are the cornerstones of a safe and secure society. As we celebrate the achievements of our award recipients today, let us also acknowledge the collective spirit of service that defines our entire police force.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Egbetokun applauded Tinubu for his support of the force, as well as his administration’s efforts in ensuring the nation’s security forces were up to their game and assured of their dedication, courage, and selflessness to the nation.
