Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun revealed that President Bola Tinubu has granted approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 policemen, marking a significant increase from the previous yearly recruitment of 10,000 officers. During his visit to Adamawa State, the IGP acknowledged the strain on police officers and expressed his commitment to alleviating the challenges related to overworking. Egbetokun addressed the stress experienced by police personnel due to inadequate manpower, emphasizing his dedication to resolving this issue during his tenure.
Reflecting on the historical context, he highlighted the evolution of police shifts, noting the increased workload officers face today. Egbetokun shared insights from his experience as an area commander in Osogbo, recounting instances where officers worked continuous shifts for an entire week. He recognized the impact of such demanding schedules on officers and their public image.
As part of his efforts to improve the working conditions and morale of the police force, the IGP secured President Tinubu’s approval for a substantial increase in annual recruitment. This decision is aimed at addressing the longstanding issue of manpower shortage within the police.
Looking ahead, Egbetokun outlined plans to introduce awards for gallantry within the police force. He emphasized that these awards would serve as a means for officers to receive special promotions. Furthermore, he underscored a shift towards merit-based promotions across all cadres, signaling a commitment to fairness and recognition of exemplary service.
In summary, the announcement of increased annual recruitment and the introduction of awards for gallantry underlines the IGP’s determination to enhance the efficiency and well-being of the Nigerian police force.
