Protocol.

With profound gratitude and a deep sense of duty, I stand before you on this momentous occasion of the National Police Day, dedicated to honouring the courage, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment of the gallant officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force. It will be recalled that on April 15th, 2024, during the Award and Commendation Ceremony of the Nigeria Police Force, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, ably represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, proclaimed the first week of April of every year as the Police week and made the historic declaration of April 7th as the National Police Day.

3. On behalf of the leadership and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, I express profound gratitude to His Excellency, Mr. President and Commander-in-Chief, for this distinguished honour and recognition. Today offers us not only a time for celebration but a solemn moment for reflection and renewed commitment to the principles of justice, service, and professional policing.

4. The legacy of policing in Nigeria dates back to 1861 when the British colonial administration established a constabulary in Lagos to maintain law and order; an event that laid the foundation for modern-day policing in our country. Over time, this modest beginning evolved into a robust national institution, culminating in the formal establishment of the Nigeria Police Force on 1st April, 1930. This transformation signifies our nation’s relentless pursuit of order, unity, and national security. Over the years, several security and intelligence agencies emerged from the roots of the Nigeria Police Force. With many benefitting from the leadership of officers trained and nurtured within our ranks

5. The significance of this day also provides a solemn opportunity to remember our fallen heroes; men and women who paid the ultimate price in service of our dear nation. Their memories remain indelibly etched in our hearts. To their families, we say your pain is our burden. We offer our deepest sympathies and unwavering support. These fallen officers remain the eternal symbols of national sacrifice.

6. As we remember our fallen officers, we also celebrate the heroism of serving officers who continue to brave great risks in the course of duty. Your resilience and dedication amidst the complexities of contemporary security challenges inspire confidence and hope. We likewise acknowledge the indispensable support of our communities and strategic partners who continue to collaborate with us in our collective drive for a safer society.

7. Your Excellency, the declaration of April 7th as National Police Day is not a mere ceremonial gesture; it is a testament to the inestimable value of the Nigeria Police Force to the preservation of national unity and democratic stability. It is a bold affirmation of your administration’s support for institutional reform and capacity enhancement of our personnel. This gesture serves as a tremendous boost to our morale and reinforces our collective resolve to discharge our duties with renewed vigour and unwavering integrity.

8. To all our gallant officers, I commend your courage. Each day, you don the uniform with pride, aware of the inherent risks yet resolute in your devotion to duty. Let this day mark a renewed call to excellence. Let us recommit to the highest standards of conduct, respect for human rights, and people-centred policing. We are the guardians of peace and protectors of the realm; our service must continue to reflect professionalism, honour, and integrity.

9. We acknowledge the Federal Government’s ongoing support towards repositioning the Nigeria Police Force. Investments in training, modern equipment, and institutional reform are significantly improving our operational capacity. Under the able leadership of Mr. President, the Nigeria Police Force is evolving into a more accountable, responsive, and service-driven organisation. We also appreciate the National Assembly for its legislative commitment to strengthening our institutional framework.

10. Our reform agenda is well underway. We have initiated strategic policies and programmes focused on capacity building, ethics and attitudinal reorientation, modernisation of operational tools, and enhanced transparency and accountability. We are embracing technology, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement as cornerstones of our service delivery model. Our goal is clear; to build a Police Force that commands trust, delivers justice, and reflects the democratic ideals of our nation.

11. To our counterparts in the Armed Forces and other security agencies, we say thank you. Our collaborative engagements, intelligence sharing, and joint operations continue to reinforce national security. Together, we remain a united force for peace, security and national development.

12. While today is a celebration of legacy and progress, it also marks a solemn rededication to the journey ahead. The Nigeria Police Force acknowledges the evolving nature of security threats and the growing expectations of our citizens. We pledge to deepen our reforms, reinforce our bond with the communities we serve, and remain steadfast in our mission to protect life and property across the length and breadth of this great nation.

13. On this National Police Day, let us move forward in unity and determination to build a Nigeria where the police is not only a symbol of authority but a beacon of hope, service, and national pride. We solicit your continued support and partnership in actualising this vision.

May the Almighty God bless the Nigeria Police Force.

May He continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thank you, and Happy National Police Day.