National security: IGP harps on citizens participation, lauds NSA

In pursuit of an all-inclusive policing strategy, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has urged citizens to engage actively in national security and development initiatives.

This call, he said aimed to foster a shift towards modern policing and to promote socioeconomic and political advancement in Nigeria.

The IGP further advocated for citizen volunteerism and an individualistic approach to social and security restructuring in the country.

The IGP made this call at the Force Headquarters on Tuesday while reflecting on and appraising the effectiveness of the well-coordinated operations placed for the rescue of the 20 medical students who were kidnapped in Benue State on August 15, 2024, and other seven Nigerians who had been in the captivity of the heinous criminals.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including the Police, other security agencies, and government entities at all levels, to realize the vision of a new Nigeria characterized by enhanced national security and good governance for all.

The Inspector-General of Police also emphatically lauded the personal role and steadfastness of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his unalloyed support to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in the rescuing of our beloved children and citizens of Nigeria.

The IGP acknowledged the NSA’s dedication to lending helping hand to security forces in fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerian citizens, as well as upholding law and order throughout the nation.

In the same vein, the Inspector-General of Police extended sincere gratitude to the officers affiliated with the office of the National Security Adviser, the military, and other security personnel, as well as the local community members who actively participated in the rescue operation, along with numerous similar efforts throughout the nation.

He noted that their contributions are praiseworthy and played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Nigeria and its citizens.

He reaffirmed the dedication of the Police, under his leadership, to assiduously emplace a Police Force that is professionally competent, rule-of-law compliant, service-driven, and people-friendly.

The IGP assured the public of the safe rescue of all Nigerians in captivity across the country. This is our pledge, and we will ensure its fulfillment.