Tinubu approves April 7 as Police Day
By B3njamin Arida://
In further recognition of the sacrifices by the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, the federal government has approved the first week of April as the Police Week with the 7th day of the month as National Police Day.
President Bola Tinubu, who disclosed this in Abuja on Monday night at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations, explained that the approval was to recognize and honour the NPF personnel for their great service to the nation.
Represented by the Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said: “The last day of the week, the 7th of April, is declared National Police Day in Nigeria”.
According to him, 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.
Tinubu 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.
“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 stressed.
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.
He said: “Your exemplary valour doesn’t only represent the pinnacle of patriotism that binds us, but also instills confidence that brighter days lie just beyond the horizon.
“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 remarks, the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam affirmed that Nigerians must recognize and appreciate the hard work and commitment of brave men and women who selflessly serve the people of Nigeria.
Gaidam noted 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.
“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,” he added.
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.
