The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has formally marked the end of service for immediate past Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun with a ceremonial pull-out parade at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
The event served as an official and dignified farewell, complete with a parade and heartfelt tributes, following Egbetokun’s resignation in February 2026 and the subsequent appointment of the current IGP, Olatunji (Tunji) Disu.In his address, IGP Disu lauded his predecessor for establishing a solid foundation for professional policing in Nigeria.
He recalled their shared professional journey, including time spent working under a former governor and highlighted Egbetokun’s early signs of strong leadership, unwavering commitment, and exceptional ability to handle complex challenges.
Disu assured that the Force would continue to benefit from the experience of former IGPs while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability under his stewardship.
Delivering his farewell remarks, former IGP Egbetokun expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the role, and the officers and men of the Force for their loyalty and support throughout his tenure.
He described the privilege of leading the Nigeria Police Force as one of the greatest honors of his professional life.
Egbetokun emphasized that the office of the Inspector-General is not the story of one person but part of a continuous institutional legacy built by successive leaders for the collective benefit of the Force and the Nigerian people.
He urged officers to see leadership as an evolving narrative of service to the nation rather than individual achievement.
Highlighting key accomplishments during his tenure, he noted:
Elevation of the Intelligence Bureau to a full department headed by a Deputy Inspector-General.
Upgrading of the Legal and Medical Units to directorate status for improved efficiency.
Advancement of the Cybercrime Centre into a state-of-the-art facility for cyberspace monitoring and modern investigations.
Strengthening of the National Criminal Database and nationwide training for investigators.
Expansion of operational reach through new Police Mobile Force Squadrons, Area Commands, Divisions, and the establishment of the Special Intervention Squad, which recorded significant successes nationwide.
Enhanced community engagement, international collaborations, and training opportunities with partners in the United States, United Kingdom, China, Egypt, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates.
Completion of barracks redevelopment projects in Kano and Kaduna under Public-Private Partnerships, commissioning of modern state command headquarters in Ogun and Adamawa, and ongoing infrastructure improvements.
Introduction of the Annual Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony to foster excellence and integrity.
Federal recognition of April 7 as National Police Day, passage of the Police Institutions Establishment Act for direct funding of training institutions, and presidential approval for comprehensive renovation of police schools and colleges nationwide.
Egbetokun attributed these milestones to the dedication, courage, and sacrifices of officers across all ranks and formations.
He expressed deep appreciation for their loyalty and reaffirmed his confidence in the Force’s continued progress under the new leadership.
