By Egena Sunday Ode
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed plans to deepen investment in police training, intelligence gathering, and modern law enforcement systems, as part of a broader plan to transform the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) into a world-class institution.
He said the Nigerian state owes a permanent moral duty to empower its security agencies, as the nation’s peace is only as secure as the men and women who keep vigil over its citizens.
Speaking on Tuesday at the National Police Day Grand Parade and Procession in Abuja, President Tinubu, who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, maintained that no nation can make meaningful progress without a secure social environment.
Accordingly, he declared that the Federal Government would deepen investments in training, intelligence gathering and modern policing infrastructure as part of his administration’s ongoing reform agenda.
“We will continue to support these reforms through sustained investment in training and capacity development, modern equipment and technology, improved intelligence and investigative capabilities, and better welfare and working conditions for police personnel.
“We are determined to build a Police Force that is well equipped, well trained, and well-motivated to confront the complex security challenges of our time,” the President stated
The Nigerian leader observed that while history chooses to reward certain professions with applause, there are others which civilisation depend on to survive, “even when their labour is too often repaid with silence.”
He acknowledged the burden of sacrifice being shouldered by the police force, stressing that the country cannot afford to take such a sacrifice for granted because “every nation is only as safe as those who keep vigil while others sleep.”
Underscoring the need to empower the force, President Tinubu said, “Nigeria must strengthen those who protect the nation. Security is not simply the defence of territory or the prevention of crime. It is the first currency of progress.”
He noted that the observance of National Police Day, institutionalised last year, reflects the Federal Government’s deliberate recognition of the sacrifices made by police officers, adding that the administration remains resolute in strengthening the Police through concrete policy actions and sustained investment.
In his address, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, said the police force, under his command, is deeply aware of expectations and concerns by the Nigerian people, stating that the approval of President Tinubu’s for the commemoration of the National Police Day is a commitment to the service of fallen and serving officers.
He acknowledged the risks, sacrifices and commitment of police officers nationwide, urging the NPF to rise above indiscipline, misconduct and every action that tarnishes the image and reputation of the force.
The grand finale of the 2026 National Police Day celebration featured march past, procession and tactical displays by various police units and cadets of the Police Academy.
