President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged every police officer, regardless of rank or posting, to uphold the sacred trust bestowed upon them by the Nigerian people, reminding them that the power they wield is not for intimidation but for protection.
President Tinubu gave the charge at the Second Edition of the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony, held in Abuja on Wednesday.
The President, who was ably represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, stressed that the power police officers have is not for abuse but for service.
"You must be guided by the highest standards of accountability and professionalism. Uphold the rule of law, protect the rights of every citizen, and reject all forms of misconduct and corruption. Only then can we build a police force that is truly respected and trusted by the people it serves." he said
He commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for the successful institutionalisation of this noble initiative, one that not only recognises but also honours courage, dedication, and integrity in police service.
"Through this ceremony, the Nigeria Police Force celebrates officers who have gone beyond the call of duty, who have demonstrated rare acts of professionalism, and who continue to embody the values of service, honour, and nationhood," he added
The President noted that the success and significance of the first edition of this awards ceremony laid the foundation for the historic declaration of April 7th as National Police Day in Nigeria.
He stressed that the first observance of this important day earlier this year marked a new chapter in the story of the Nigeria Police Force, one that enshrines respect, recognition, and national reflection on the sacrifices of those who risk their lives daily to keep our communities safe.
He assured that his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to the transformation of the Nigeria Police Force.
"We understand that modern policing demands modern tools, continuous training, intelligence-led strategies, and community partnership. We will continue to invest in the provision of cutting-edge equipment, technological support, capacity-building programmes and welfare schemes aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and boosting morale across the ranks," he said
The President, therefore, congratulated award recipients, saying, "You have made the nation proud. You have reminded us of what is possible when duty meets dedication and when service is driven by honour.
He urged them not to rest on their laurels. "Let this recognition spur you to even greater heights. Let your example inspire others within the Force to emulate your discipline, your hard work, your professionalism, and your integrity."
In his remarks, the Inspector General of Police said the Awards and Commendation Ceremony stands today as a bold symbol of NPF institutional shift: from entitlement to merit, from routine to excellence.
He noted that this year’s award process was a deliberate, rigorous, and transparent endeavour to institutionalise merit within the Nigeria Police Force. Nominations came from every stratum, from Force Headquarters to the remotest outposts.
Eulogising award recipients, the IGP said the officers celebrated are not extraordinary because of fame or fortune. They are extraordinary because they refuse to be ordinary. From patrol officers who brave the night to keep our cities safe, to detectives who crack syndicates with painstaking precision,
"I congratulate you all. You are the reason our nation can sleep with renewed hope. You are the embodiment of quiet heroism, and tonight, we stand in tribute to your legacy.
He urged every officer — from Constable to Commissioner, to return from the occasion to duty, with renewed vision and deeper resolve. 2Let this night not end here. Let it mark a new beginning in our journey towards excellence."
The highlight of the second edition of the Police Awards and Commendation Night was the award of excellence in policing and presentation of awards to deserving officers who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and commitment to duty. It would be recalled that the inaugural event in April 2024, where thirteen (13) exceptional officers were recognised for their remarkable service.