The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has assured police officers who retired after decades of service that their exit from active duty does not mean they are leaving the Nigeria Police family.
Disu gave the assurance in a goodwill message at a ceremony organised by the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Yaba, to honour 24 police officers who retired after 35 years of meritorious service to the Force and the nation.
The IGP congratulated the retirees for their dedicated service, expressing pride in their achievements and contributions to policing over the years.
He said their wealth of experience and contributions remained valuable to the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that their sacrifices and commitment to duty would continue to be appreciated even after retirement.
Disu wished the retirees fulfilment and success as they begin a new chapter of their lives, urging them to remain proud of their contributions to the Force.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID, Yaba, DCP Dayo Akinbisehin, described the ceremony as a significant milestone in the history of the Lagos State Police Command and the department.
Akinbisehin said the retirees represented decades of sacrifice, bravery and unwavering commitment to duty, noting that their careers involved long hours, complex investigations and protecting communities under challenging circumstances.
He said SCID, Panti, as a foremost police investigative department in Lagos, handles high-profile, complex and sensitive cases, adding that the retirees played significant roles in bringing suspects to justice despite the risks associated with their duties.
The DCP also commended the families of the retirees for their sacrifices and support, describing spouses, children and friends as the “unsung heroes” behind the officers’ successful careers.
He urged the retirees to proceed into retirement with their heads held high, assuring them that their experience and wisdom would continue to be valued by the Force.
One of the retirees, DSP Benson Emuerhi, said his 35 years in the police taught him that policing was fundamentally about service to humanity.
Emuerhi called for improved welfare and remuneration for police personnel, saying better welfare would enhance officers’ effectiveness, motivation and commitment to duty.
Another retiree, ASP Udoh Patrick, urged serving officers to maintain cordial relationships with members of the public, stressing the importance of humility, honesty, moderation and respect in policing.
Patrick also appealed to citizens to see the police as partners rather than enemies in maintaining peace and security, saying regular interaction between the police and communities would strengthen trust and confidence in the Force.
Meanwhile, DSP Rita Momah, who also retired after about 35 years of service in Lagos, expressed excitement at the opportunity to retire and rest after decades of active service.
The ceremony brought together serving officers, retirees, families, well-wishers and other stakeholders to celebrate the contributions of the 24 retired personnel to policing and national service.
