Juliana Francis
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, the 19th of December 2024, received 10 mobile clinics donated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The IGP, who was represented by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Frank Mba, said: “It is with a profound sense of responsibility and appreciation that I welcome you all to this significant occasion marking the handover of 10 mobile clinics to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Firstly, let me recognize and extend my sincere gratitude to the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Global Security-Sector-Reform Foundation (GS-Foundation) for their outstanding
contributions under the Supporting Police Reform Processes in Nigeria Project.”
The number one policeman in Nigeria further said that the generous initiative was yet another remarkable
milestone in advancing the goals of this critical reform project.
He also said that the delivery of the mobile clinics was not merely a gesture of goodwill.
“It is a strategic investment in the well-being of our officers, trainees, and, by extension, the communities we serve. These assets will be deployed across ten of our police training institutions nationwide, reinforcing our commitment to holistic development within the Force.”
He also mentioned the intervention builds upon the successes recorded in the reform project over recent years.
Egbetokun explained that in 2023, the delivery of a 2,000-bed capacity mobile barracks significantly alleviated accommodation challenges in our training schools. Furthermore, over 1,500 police personnel, including 600 instructors, have undergone advanced
training in contemporary policing practices, with an emphasis on human rights, ethical policing, and community engagement.
Additionally, the introduction of the Women Police Leadership Programme stands as a testament to our resolve to promote gender inclusion within the Force, he said.
He further said that this initiative strengthens the Nigeria Police’s capacity to combat sexual and gender-based violence while fostering a culture of equality in our organizational framework.
He added: “As we receive these mobile clinics today, I want to assure our development partners and all stakeholders of the NPF’s unwavering commitment to their optimal utilization, maintenance, and sustainability. Historically, one of the challenges we have faced has been inadequate funding for the upkeep of police infrastructure, leading to the deterioration of critical assets. However, under the
visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, this gap is being systematically addressed. With the huge support of the Federal Government and the 10th National Assembly, a legislative framework is being deliberated to establish direct and sustainable
funding for police training schools.
“This initiative will empower our training institutions to independently manage and maintain their assets, ensuring that investments like these clinics continue to
deliver long-term value. Additionally, the NPF has instituted a robust asset management system, including a comprehensive asset register.
“This system enables us to monitor and manage our resources effectively, ensuring that they remain operational and impactful for years to come.”
The IGP stated that the day’s milestone reaffirms his administration’s vision and shared commitment to a Police Force that is professionally competent, service-driven, and fully aligned with the principles of the ule of law.
He also said that these mobile clinics symbolize more than just healthcare assets. They represent a significant advancement in the NPF’s Health Policy, prioritizing the mental and physical well-being of our officers, he said.
He added: “I call on all stakeholders to sustain these noble efforts. The impact of this reform project extends beyond policing; it contributes to broader goals of human security, economic growth, and national
development.”
