Akpabio Pledges NASS Support For Better Policing Of Nigeria As Kano Donates N20m To Families Of Deceased Officers

Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, has pledged that the National Assembly will fully cooperate and support better policing across the country.

He made the pledge during the inaugural Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony, which took place on Monday evening in Abuja.

Speaking to the audience, the Senate President stated, “As the leader of the National Assembly, I pledge our full cooperation and support for improved policing in Nigeria.

“We recognise the importance of a well-equipped and motivated police force in ensuring the security and well-being of our citizens.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to provide the legislative framework and resources required for the police to effectively carry out their duties.”

The Senate President also praised the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the entire leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for organising the event, urging them to use the occasion to celebrate the Nigeria Police Force’s achievements and to reiterate their commitment to working together for a safer and more secure Nigeria.

Akpabio stated, “I commend the Police for their first effort in organising this awards ceremony. It is a testament to IGP Egbetokun’s commitment to giving honor to whom it is due.

“By recognizing the gallant, selfless and patriotic contributions of individual officers, we not only motivate them for higher performance but also reinforce the new policing agenda of the Force.

“This agenda focuses on internal ethical regeneration, restoration of professional standards and the enhancement of the anti-corruption drive.

“However, let us not ignore the challenges faced by the police in Nigeria. The ever-evolving landscape of crime and the increasing sophistication of criminal gangs pose significant obstacles.

“Moreso, as we honor the good officers, let us weed out the bad ones because a chain is as strong as its weakest link. It is crucial that we address these issues and work together to find solutions.

“The Police need the support and cooperation of all stakeholders to overcome these challenges and build a stronger and more effective Police Force.

“I congratulate the awardees who have excelled in their respective fields of policing. Their dedication, bravery and integrity have set them apart and made them deserving of this recognition.

“I commend each and every one of them for their outstanding performance and commitment to the service of our nation. I remind them that those who are given much are expected to give back even more.

In addition to the awards given on various aspects of policing, posthumous awards in memorial recognition of the fallen heroes were given to the seven police personnel killed at Ugheli forest in Delta State on 20th February, 2024.

Representatives of the families of the deceased received the awards as well as cheques for their entitlements.

Akpabio, while making the presentation of the posthumous awards on behalf of the Nigeria Police, announced that he would support each of the families with one million naira to pay their way back home while the Senate as an institution made a commitment to support the families of the deceased with N20 million.

On his part, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima commended the Senate President and the Kano State Governor for their “show of empathy” to the affected families.