The Nigeria Police Force on March 12, 2026, held a ceremonial pull-out parade at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, in honour of the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, marking the formal end of his distinguished policing career spanning more than three decades.
The colourful ceremony celebrated the former police chief, who retired from active service on February 25, 2026, after 36 years of dedicated service to the police and the nation.
Speaking at the event, the current Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the occasion as a significant moment for the force and praised the retiring IGP for his exemplary leadership.
“The career of the retired IGP was defined by dedication, professionalism, and exemplary leadership,” Disu said. “His tenure contributed immensely to strengthening operational efficiency, promoting intelligence-led policing, enhancing professionalism, and reinforcing the institutional values of discipline, accountability, and service within the Force.”
He added that officers and men of the police were deeply appreciative of Egbetokun’s contributions to policing in Nigeria.
In his farewell address, Egbetokun expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation through the police for 36 years.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve our great nation through the Nigeria Police Force for thirty-six years,” he said. “During my tenure, we made deliberate efforts to strengthen institutional processes, expand operational capabilities, and enhance professionalism across the Force.”
The former IGP highlighted several initiatives introduced during his tenure, including the expansion of the Intelligence Bureau into a full department, the elevation of the Legal and Medical Units to directorate status, and the development of the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Centre.
He also noted improvements to the National Criminal Database, the establishment of additional Police Mobile Force Squadrons and Area Commands, as well as the creation of the Special Intervention Squad to strengthen the operational capacity of the force.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Yellman, who was represented by Kama Nkemkanma; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi; and Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Hashimu Argungu.
Also present were former Inspectors-General of Police, including Mike Okiro and Ogbonna Onovo, alongside heads and representatives of other security agencies.
Traditional rulers were also in attendance, led by the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Kehinde Olugbenle.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placide, the ceremony symbolised the force’s appreciation of Egbetokun’s long-standing service and leadership in advancing policing reforms in Nigeria. #Securitynewsalert.com
