President Bola Tinubu has officially designated April 7th as National Police Day, aimed at honoring the invaluable service and sacrifice of Nigeria’s police force.
During the inaugural Nigeria Police Awards and commendation ceremony held in Abuja on Monday, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, made the declaration.
President Tinubu underscored his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the police force, envisioning a modern, professional, and accountable institution.
Since assuming office in 2023, President Tinubu’s administration has embarked on extensive reforms aimed at reinvigorating the police force.
The president emphasized the importance of continuous training and capacity-building for police personnel.
President Tinubu announced that the federal government has sanctioned the first week of April as Police Week, with April 7th designated as National Police Day in Nigeria.
He said: “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 April 7th, 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.
“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.
“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.”
President Tinubu pledged to enhance the equipment and technology available to the police force to bolster their effectiveness.
In his words: “My administration will ensure that police officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values and expertise required to tackle the complex challenges of modern policing.
“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 during their service and after retirement.”
