Yetunde Longe, a distinguished officer and the first female Secretary of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), officially retired on Tuesday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. Her illustrious career was celebrated in a grand pulling-out ceremony held at the Police College, Ikeja, attended by police officers, family members, and friends.
Longe, who retired with the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), was honored for her exceptional service and dedication to the force. Among the senior officers present was Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West, Abiodun Alabi, who represented the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun.
Reflecting on her journey, Longe expressed deep fulfillment from her decades of service. “As I retire from the Nigeria Police Force after reaching the mandatory age of 60 years, I am filled with a sense of pride, of accomplishment, and fulfillment,” she remarked. She described her career as an “incredible and fulfilling journey,” noting that it was dotted with numerous formidable challenges.
Longe also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated officers committed to upholding the law and protecting communities across Nigeria. “I am grateful to have served with such a committed team, and I thank my colleagues, superiors, family, and friends for their unwavering support throughout my career. I will continue to uphold the principles of service, integrity, and excellence in my future endeavors,” she added.
Inspector-General of Police Egbetokun, in a speech delivered by DIG Alabi, lauded Longe’s professionalism and urged other officers to emulate her exemplary service. He highlighted her bravery, commitment, and integrity, noting that her career was marked by countless acts of humility and compassion. “We continue to draw from your inspiration and wealth of experience that you have shown throughout your career,” Egbetokun stated.
He further acknowledged Longe’s unique position as the only female to have served as the Force Secretary, emphasizing that her dedication to duty and her exemplary achievements were noteworthy. “You have made a significant positive impact on the force. We are immensely proud of you,” Egbetokun concluded.
