President Bola Tinubu has officially designated April 7th as National Police Day, a significant step in recognizing the dedication and service of law enforcement officers across Nigeria.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, made the announcement during the inaugural Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations ceremony at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, on Monday.

In his address, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of fundamentally transforming the institutional mindset and memory within the police force.

He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing and professionalizing the force since assuming office in 2023.

President Tinubu underscored the necessity of providing extensive training and capacity-building opportunities to police personnel, equipping them with the necessary skills to effectively carry out their duties in contemporary law enforcement.

Also, President Tinubu revealed that the Federal Government had sanctioned the first week of April as police week, culminating in the designation of April 7th as National Police Day—a testament to the government’s commitment to honoring and supporting the nation’s law enforcement community.

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, April 7, is hereby declared National Police Day in Nigeria.

“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 instill confidence that brighter days lie just beyond the horizon.”

The president listed part of the comprehensive reforms by his administration to rejuvenate the police force to include investment in training and capacity-building.

He added, “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.”

He also gave assurance that the government would upgrade equipment and technology of the force to enhance its operational effectiveness and efficiency.

“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 both during their service and after retirement,” the president said.

Earlier, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode  Egbetokun, for recognising the hard work, resilience and patriotism of the officers and men of the Force.

He expressed delight and that of the National Assembly for celebrating the well-deserved officers of the force.

The Senate president stressed that the decision to celebrate the nation’s unsung heroes would pave the way for a new Force in the country.

Mr Akpabio stated, “The leadership of the police understands the role of the Police Force in a democratic dispensation. I commend the Inspector-General of Police and I commend the police officers for the work of sacrifice and for maintaining peace and order in our communities. As we commend the good officers, let us weed out the bad ones among the Force as, to whom much is given, much is expected.’’