President Tinubu Declares April 7 National Police Day
President Bola Tinubu has declared April 7 as National Police Day. He made the declaration through Vice President Kashim at the maiden award and commendations event organised by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Abuja on Monday night.
Delivering the President’s speech titled, “Courage Under Fire: A Bouquet for Our Police Force,” VP Shettima said at a time in Nigeria’s history when the nation’s security architecture is being stretched beyond elastic limits, the citizens have 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.
He noted that his administration have been unequivocal about its resolve to transform the Nigeria Police Force into “a modern, professional, and accountable institution that mirrors the aspirations and values” of the nation.
According to him, this will ensure that police officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and expertise required to tackle the complex challenges of modern policing, assuring that the government will upgrade equipment and technology to enhance the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the force.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, in our tradition of honouring the Police Force in the life of this great nation, we have approved the adoption of the first week of April as Police Week. Furthermore, the last day of the week, the 7th of April, is hereby declared National Police Day in Nigeria.
“Tonight, I must remind you that we don’t see you as just the shields of the nation. We don’t see you as robots. This is why we are here. We are here to humanise you,” he declared.
“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 noted that his administration have been unequivocal about its resolve to transform the Nigeria Police Force into “a modern, professional, and accountable institution that mirrors the aspirations and values” of the nation.
The President continued: “Our idea of a modern police force goes beyond superficial changes like repainting office buildings and residences or simply procuring firearms. True reform of our security doctrine and its architecture necessitates recognising the importance of administering justice and adhering to our ethical values to foster stability and order in the nation.
“The transformation we seek must transcend mere policy and infrastructure; it requires a fundamental overhaul of our institutional mentality and memory.”
President Tinubu listed part of the comprehensive reforms by his administration to rejuvenate the police force to include investment in training and capacity-building.
He said this will ensure that police officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and expertise required to tackle the complex challenges of modern policing, assuring that the government will 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. These endeavours will be supported by suitable measures to enhance the status of our officers and personnel both during their service and after retirement,” he further stated.
In his goodwill message, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for recognising the hardwork, resilience and patriotism of the officers and men of the police force.
Expressing his delight and that of the National Assembly for celebrating the well-deserved officers of the force, the Senate President said the decision to celebrate the nation's unsung heroes will pave way for a new police force in the country.
“The leadership of the police understands the role of police force in a democratic dispensation. I commend the Inspector General of Police and I commend the police officers for the work of sacrifice and for maintaining peace and order in our communities.
“As we commend the good officers, let us weed out the bad ones among the police force,” Akpabio stated, adding that to whom much is given, much is expected.