IGP Egbetokun Calls for Anti-Corruption Measures and Institutional Strengthening for Sustainable Peace in Nigeria
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, emphasized the need for Nigeria to tackle the pervasive culture of corruption, strengthen governance institutions, promote inclusion, and enhance regional cooperation to achieve sustainable peace and stability.
Speaking at the first distinguished personality lecture at the TETFUND Centre of Excellence in Multidisciplinary Studies, University of Ibadan, Egbetokun highlighted that corruption and impunity within Nigeria’s governance structures significantly exacerbate the nation’s crises.
He stressed that political interference in police operations compromises the impartiality and effectiveness of law enforcement during crises, underscoring the necessity for the police force to remain independent from political influence to maintain public trust and confidence.
IGP Egbetokun announced the forthcoming recruitment of 30,000 police officers, approved by President Bola Tinubu, following the completion of the current recruitment of 10,000 personnel.
“In recent times, the Nigeria Police Force has undertaken numerous initiatives to enhance its effectiveness in managing internal security challenges. These efforts include the creation of specialized units, improvements in training and equipment, and community engagement programs aimed at addressing various forms of crime and insecurity,” Egbetokun said.
The Inspector General also mentioned investments in security technology, particularly drone technologies, to improve the fight against terrorism and banditry. He highlighted the successes of the Nigeria Police Cyber Crime Center, which has recovered over 36 billion naira and dismantled a major online fraud syndicate, arresting 15 suspects and recovering millions of naira in stolen funds.
Egbetokun called for increased funding for the police to address equipment needs, improve infrastructure, and enhance training programs.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, the Acting Director of the TETFUND Centre of Excellence in Multidisciplinary Studies, Dr. Benjamin Aluko, and lead scholar Prof. Isaac Olawale Albert, also stressed the importance of improving internal security and managing crises in the country.
Source: thisday
