Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ushered in a new era of efficiency, accountability, and strategic reform within the Nigeria Police Force. His tenure is characterized by significant achievements that have transformed internal operations, greatly enhancing public safety and trust. Egbetokun’s data-driven approach and focus on modern policing methods have redefined law enforcement practices in Nigeria.
Upon taking office, Egbetokun inherited a system burdened with over 35,000 unresolved cases. Under his leadership, more than 29,000 cases have been successfully prosecuted, leading to 16,200 convictions. This impressive turnaround highlights his commitment to swift and effective crime resolution. Additionally, he oversaw the arrest of 35,496 suspects, demonstrating a proactive approach to crime reduction.
Security, a critical concern in Nigeria, has seen notable improvements during his tenure. Egbetokun’s administration has rescued 1,907 kidnap victims nationwide, reinforcing his focus on combating violent crimes.
His leadership also resulted in the recovery of 2,750 firearms and over 22,500 rounds of ammunition, emphasizing the importance of effective arms control. To address infrastructure shortcomings, he established the NPF Cybercrime Centre and commissioned a state-of-the-art evidence storage facility, enhancing operational efficiency and resource management.
Logistical and technological upgrades have been central to his reforms. Egbetokun’s acquisition of modern equipment, including drones, Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), and gun trucks, has significantly improved the force’s operational capabilities. These advancements are complemented by the establishment of the Police Intelligence School in Kwara State, underscoring his commitment to ongoing officer training and professional development.
Officer welfare has also been a top priority for Egbetokun. He facilitated the promotion of 33,867 officers based on merit and ensured the payment of ₦9.85 billion under the Life Assurance Scheme, providing vital support to officers’ families.
His commitment to inclusivity was reflected in the declaration of April 7 as National Police Day and the initiation of the first-ever Police Commendation and Awards Ceremony, which recognized the exemplary service of officers and fostered a culture of excellence within the force.
Public engagement and image enhancement have played crucial roles in his administration. Egbetokun’s dialogue sessions with former IGPs and community leaders aim to foster collaboration and restore public trust.
He also established the Force Public Relations School to improve communication strategies, ensuring that the police remain transparent and accessible to the public. These initiatives are part of his broader vision of building a police force that is not only efficient but also people-friendly and compliant with the rule of law.
His forward-thinking leadership extended to election security, where he devised comprehensive security plans for the Edo and Ondo gubernatorial elections, ensuring peaceful electoral processes. Additionally, his administration introduced modernized strategies for handling evidence and exhibits, further streamlining police operations.
Through a combination of strategic reforms, infrastructural upgrades, and community engagement, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has demonstrated a commitment to transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a more effective and trusted institution. His achievements reflect a holistic approach to policing that prioritizes public safety, officer welfare, and operational excellence. As his tenure progresses, Egbetokun continues to inspire confidence in the future of law enforcement in Nigeria.
