Tinubu: Security is the First Currency for Nigeria's Meaningful Progress
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asserted that Nigeria must ensure a secure social environment to achieve meaningful progress, promising enhanced investment in police training, intelligence gathering, and contemporary law enforcement systems. The president emphasized that these initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy to transform the Nigeria Police Force into a world-class institution.
No Nation Can Thrive Without Adequate Security
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the second edition of the National Police Day in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu highlighted that no nation can prosper without sufficient security. He stated that the Nigerian state has a moral duty to empower its security agencies, noting that the country's peace is only as robust as those who protect it.
"We will continue to support these reforms through sustained investment in training and capacity development, modern equipment and technology, improved intelligence and investigative capabilities, and better welfare and working conditions for police personnel," he declared. "We are determined to build a Police Force that is well-equipped, well-trained, and well-motivated to confront the complex security challenges of our time."
Acknowledging the Sacrifices of Police Officers
The president observed that while some professions receive public acclaim, others—such as policing—are vital to society's survival, even when their sacrifices often go unnoticed. He recognized the burden carried by police officers, cautioning that the nation cannot afford to take their contributions for granted.
"Every nation is only as safe as those who keep vigil while others sleep," he added. Tinubu stressed the necessity of strengthening the police, describing security as "the first currency of progress." He noted that the observance of National Police Day, established last year, reflects the Federal Government's acknowledgment of officers' sacrifices, affirming his administration's commitment to bolstering the force through concrete policy actions and sustained investment.
Tribute to Fallen Officers and Call for Professionalism
Tinubu paid homage to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, characterizing their sacrifice as part of the nation's enduring moral heritage. "Their sacrifice is written into the conscience of our country. Their memory must remain a lamp to those who wear this uniform today and to those who will wear it tomorrow," he expressed, extending condolences to their families.
He also commended serving officers for their resilience and dedication in upholding law and order under challenging conditions, urging them to maintain professionalism, fairness, and respect for the rule of law. "The uniform you wear is not a licence for arbitrariness; it is a covenant of service. The badge on your chest is not an ornament of power; it is a reminder of duty," he stated.
Emphasizing Community-Centered Policing
Tinubu further advocated for stronger collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agencies, noting that effective policing must be grounded in trust and community partnership. "When citizens and law enforcement stand on opposite sides of suspicion, insecurity thrives. This is why community-centred policing is a democratic necessity," he explained.
The president reaffirmed his administration's vision of constructing a police institution defined by excellence, accountability, courage, and service, while restoring public confidence.
Support from Financial Institutions and Event Highlights
In separate goodwill messages, representatives from Wema Bank and Premium Trust Bank praised the police for their contributions to national security and pledged ongoing support for professional policing.
The grand finale of the 2026 National Police Day celebration featured a march past, procession, and tactical displays by various police units and cadets of the Police Academy. Dignitaries in attendance included:
- Deputy governors of Nasarawa and Ebonyi states
- Representatives of the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives
- Service chiefs
- Former Inspectors-General of Police, such as Ogbonnaya Onovo, Mohammed Abubakar, Kayode Egbetokun, Suleiman Abba, and Usman Alkali Baba
- Members of the diplomatic corps and other stakeholders
