The newly appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olaukayode Egbetokun, has officially resumed office with high expectations, as he promises to offset salaries and allowances arrears payment of policemen by month end.
Egbetokun who assumed duties on 21st June 2023, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the 22nd indigenous IGP, after succeeding Usman Alkali Baba, who has completed his 35 years in service. He said in his inaugural speech: “Today, I am before you with great honor and a profound sense of responsibility as the newly appointed Inspector General of Police. I am most humbled by this opportunity to serve our great nation, and I am fully committed to upholding the ideals of justice, security, and the rule of law.”
“I want to thank Mr. President and Commander-in-Chief, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, for the confidence reposed in me by appointing me to this position. Being appointed as the Inspector General of Police is not just a title for me; it is a commitment and a calling to make a difference.
“I am here not as an individual, but as a representative of a dedicated team united in our shared mission to safeguard the lives and well-being of everyone that lives in our great country. Together, we will strive to build a police force that reflects the values and aspirations of the people we serve.
“Nigeria, our beloved country, is at a critical juncture in its history. We face numerous challenges that require the concerted efforts of every citizen to overcome. As the Inspector General of Police, I firmly believe that our path to a brighter future lies in collaboration, transparency, and the reformation of our law enforcement delivery system.”
The new police boss also said he will, in the coming days and months, unveil his strategies and tactics to secure the country and protect Nigerians from all forms of security challenges including banditry and gunmen attacks.
According to him, every law-abiding citizen will be brought on board in the fight against crime under his watch. The new police chief stressed that human intelligence garnered from communities would be used alongside a technical gathering of information to curb crimes.
