President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) capabilities and improving personnel welfare.

Accordingly, he listed critical measures being undertaken by the administration in this regard to include acquisition of new vehicles, communication equipment, and forensic tools to enhance crime detection and prevention.

The President said this yesterday  during the passing-out parade and commissioning of the Regular Officers Course 6 at the Nigeria Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State.

President Tinubu who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that, as a government committed to sustainable growth, his administration is fully aware that the development of any country is directly woven into the strength of its institutions.

He stated: “For this reason, our administration remains steadfast in its efforts to ensure that our police force is equipped with the necessary tools and training to protect and serve our citizens effectively.

“We have already begun implementing critical initiatives, such as the acquisition of new vehicles, communication equipment, and forensic tools to enhance crime detection and prevention capabilities.”

The President acknowledged that it would be practically impossible for a police force to perform optimally without ensuring the welfare of its personnel, taking into cognizance “the essential role a motivated workforce plays in safeguarding the nation.

“Our government is working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all police personnel and their families. A satisfied and well-cared-for police officer is essential to ensuring the safety and security of our people,” he added.

In a digital age when policing has evolved, President Tinubu implored the Police Force to keep pace “with modern technology, leveraging data analytics and digital tools to combat crime more effectively.”

He also tasked the force on community policing, pointing out that it is not merely a strategy but also the backbone of effective law enforcement.

“Your success will depend largely on your relationship with the communities you serve. Be visible, approachable, and responsive to their needs. Remember, the power of your presence, the quality of your engagement, and the fairness of your actions will define your success—not the use of force,” he stated.

As part of efforts to address the shortage of police personnel, the President said his administration had also embarked on a recruitment drive across the nation “to address the longstanding issue of understaffing within the police force.

“This initiative will inject new energy into the force, reduce overworking, and provide more opportunities for young Nigerians to serve their country. A well-resourced police force is fundamental to national security, and we are committed to seeing this through,” he further noted.

The President applauded the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, the leadership of the NPF and the entire staff of the Nigeria Police Academy, saying their professionalism, dedication, and passion contributed in molding the newly commissioned police officers into future leaders of the force.

For the graduating cadets, President Tinubu reminded them that the badge they were putting on was not just a mere symbol of authority, but a mark of the trust and confidence Nigerians have placed in them, even as he urged them to embrace innovation and bring fresh perspectives to the force.

He continued: “Your role goes beyond enforcing laws; it is about serving with compassion, fairness, and respect for human rights. Uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in every situation you face.

“You are entering a career that will test your character and resolve. The security challenges our nation faces are complex and ever-evolving. But remember, your training has prepared you for this moment. Be courageous in the face of danger, patient in the face of provocation, and just in the face of injustice.”

Earlier in his address, the Commandant of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, AIG Sadiq I. Abubakar, reiterated the determination of the academy to produce ideal superior police officers equipped with knowledge and skills to face the challenges of policing in an increasingly complex Nigerian society.

“Mr President, the academy is proud to present to you 478 Regular Cadets Graduands, who have successfully completed both their rigorous academic programmes in various disciplines and police professional trainings,” he said.

The Commandant urged the graduands to be the embodiment of justice, professionalism and defender of peace, order and national security, saying, “Always do your best to be a good ambassador of this great institution, your family and the Nigerian Police Force.”

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his tireless efforts toward addressing the needs and concerns of the academy.

Other dignitaries at the event include Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf Kabir;  Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa; Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun; Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Ahmed Abdulhamid Malam-Madori and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs, Hon. Makki Yalleman.

Others are the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia; Special Adviser to the President on General Duties (Office of the Vice President), Aliyu Modibbo Umar; Senator Kawu Sumaila; members of the House of Representatives, Hon Lawan Shettima Ali, Hon Godwin Offiono, Hon Mohammed Muktar Zanna Kazaure; Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Department of Finance and Administration, Bala Ciroma; DIG Emeka Frank MBA; representatives of Service Chiefs, and former DIG Uba Bala Ringim, among others.

A United States-based chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), based in Gbogi Emmanuel, has rejected an appointment as a Special Assistant to the Ondo State governor, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Gbogi was among the newly 344 Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants appointed by Aiyedatiwa.

He was initially appointed as Chairman of the Transition Committee for Akoko South South LCDA but was later dropped.

In a letter addressed to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Gbogi said the appointment came as a surprise, saying he was not consulted about his willingness or availability.

He explained that he returned to his business commitments in the United States, where he resided after his appointment as LCDA Caretaker Chairman was dropped.

Gbogi stated that the circumstances surrounding the removal of his name from the initial announcement made him believe that his contributions were no longer valued in Aiyedatiwa’s administration and the party.

He said it was later revealed that he was the only person that suffered such fate in the whole of the state.

According to the letter, “The subsequent replacement led me to believe my contributions were no longer valued in your administration and the party. I felt this decision was a clear indication that my presence was no longer needed.

“While I appreciate the offer, I fear that this new appointment, which is a political strategy to recruit ward canvassers ahead of next Governorship election but cunningly decorated as Special Assistant to the Governor may be perceived as a demotion, and I cannot in good conscience accept a role that may be seen as beneath my capabilities.”

The Presidency last night granted the request by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, to proceed on an “indefinite leave” to enable him attend to pressing medical matters affecting his immediate family.

Ngelale, in a statement on his general communication WhatsApp platform, said he had on Friday submitted a memo to the President’s Chief of Staff on his decision to pause his functions, including his roles as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.

He said the decision was made after consultations with his family, owing to a worsening vexatious medical situation at home.

He expressed hope to return to full-time national service when circumstances permitted.

He, however, requested privacy for his family during this challenging time.

His leave of absence takes effect immediately, with no specified date for his return.

The Presidency, in a statement last night, said President Tinubu “fully understands and sympathises with the circumstances that have led to this difficult decision.”

He extended “our heartfelt prayers and best wishes to Chief Ngelale and his family during this difficult period, hoping for a speedy recovery and restoration to health.”

It said while Ngelale’s tireless efforts and dedication in serving the nation would be missed, it was grateful for the remarkable contributions he has made in his “various capacities, especially in advancing discourse and leading efforts on climate action and other key initiatives.”

The President wished him well in all his future endeavours and “looks forward to welcoming him back to national service when the time is ripe.”

He also asked that Ngelale’s wish for his privacy and that of his family be respected during “this period.”

Ngelale who assumed office as Special Adviser on 31st July, 2023 also served as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in an August 1, 2023 statement announced  his  appointment.

It said:” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the appointment of Chief Ajuri Ngelale as the Official Spokesperson as well as the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

“The appointment takes effect from 31st July, 2023 and would terminate at the end of this administration unless otherwise decided by the President.

“The President urges him to bring his wealth of experience to bear on the new assignment.”