The Nigeria Police Force has announced a key leadership change within the Cross River State Command. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has approved the appointment of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sunday Eitokpah Akata as the new Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state. This strategic move, effective from January 5, 2026, places a highly trained officer at the helm of police communications in the region.
A Profile of the New Police Spokesman
ASP Sunday Akata, an indigene of Edo State, brings a solid academic and professional foundation to his new role. He was commissioned into the Nigeria Police Force as an Assistant Superintendent in 2022, following the successful completion of a demanding five-year programme at the prestigious Nigeria Police Academy. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Biochemistry.
His commitment to professional development is evident in an extensive portfolio of specialised courses. These include a Combat Operations and Counter-Terrorism Course at the Police Mobile Force Training School in Ende Hills, Nasarawa State, and a Citizenship and Leadership Training Course at Shere Hills in Jos. His investigative skills were honed through a Forensic Analysis Course on Basic Crime Scene Management in Wudil, Kano, alongside both Basic and Advanced Detective Courses in Wudil and at the Police Staff College in Jos (Course 77/23), respectively.
Professional Credentials and Previous Postings
Beyond his tactical and investigative training, ASP Akata is also a certified Advanced Facilitator for the Nigeria Police Reform Programme. He holds membership in the National Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA) in Abuja, a credential that underscores his preparedness for modern digital communication challenges.
His service record demonstrates versatility and a proven track record. Prior to this appointment, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata served with notable professionalism in several capacities. His previous postings include the role of Divisional Traffic Officer at 'A' Division in Calabar and as the Officer-in-Charge of the Cross River State Police Complaint Response Unit (CRU). This hands-on experience in both operational and public-facing units is expected to greatly benefit his performance as the command's chief image-maker.
Implications for Policing and Public Engagement in Cross River
The deployment of ASP Akata as the new Police Public Relations Officer signals the force's intent to strengthen community relations and transparency in Cross River State. His diverse background—combining biochemical science, advanced detective work, counter-terrorism training, and social media analysis—presents a unique blend of skills for the role.
Residents and stakeholders in Cross River can anticipate a proactive approach to police-public communication under his leadership. His immediate task will be to manage the command's information flow, engage with the media, and foster greater public trust in the Nigeria Police Force's activities within the state. This appointment is seen as a step towards enhancing operational clarity and building stronger community partnerships for improved security.
