As the Nigeria Police marks the grand finale of the 2026 National Police Day celebrations with a colorful parade and procession held at the Eagle Square, Abuja, ,President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to partner with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to effectively tackle insecurity across the country.
President Tinubu affirms that law enforcement alone cannot achieve the desired national safety but with the active support citizens, community leaders and institutions.
The president who was represented by vice-president Kashim Shettima made the call at the 2026 National Police Day Grand Parade in Abuja on Tuesday, 7th April, 2026.
“The safety of a nation cannot be outsourced to uniforms alone. I call on all Nigerians, community leaders, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society, and the private sector to work closely with the police and other security agencies.
“When citizens and law enforcement stand on opposite sides of all suspicions, insecurity thrives. This is why, as a democratic necessity, the police must remain connected to the people, attentive to their concerns, respectful to their dignity, and responsive to their needs,” he affirms.
On his part, Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has declared a new era of accountability, professionalism, and reform within the Nigeria Police Force, pledging zero tolerance for misconduct and a renewed commitment to earning public trust.
He emphasized that National Police Day goes beyond ceremonial recognition, describing it as a time for reflection, sacrifice, and commitment to better policing standards.
The IGP also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for institutionalizing the day, describing it as a strong signal of confidence in the Nigeria Police Force’s ability to reform and deliver improved service.
“This moment will define who we are and who we must become,” he said, noting that his address marked his first national speech since assuming office."
Paying tribute to fallen officers, Disu honored men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring their families that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
“To their families, your sacrifice is not invisible. Under my leadership, your loved ones will be remembered in the standards we uphold daily,” he stated.
Addressing officers nationwide, the IGP acknowledged their sacrifices but stressed the urgent need for internal reform.
“The Nigeria Police Force must rise above indiscipline, misconduct, and actions that diminish the honour of the uniform,” he said.
Disu while firmly declaring that rank and uniform would no longer shield wrongdoing, assured officers of improved welfare, better training, and enhanced operational support.
“There will be no sacred cows. Accountability will be firm, fair, and without exception,” he warned.
To Nigerians, Disu admitted that a gap exists between the police and the public, but promised deliberate efforts to rebuild trust. He highlighted ongoing reforms, the IGP noted that the Force is already implementing new measures focused on discipline, training, technology, and community engagement.
He revealed plans to build an intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-focused policing system capable of addressing modern security challenges.
“You will see a Police Force that protects, not intimidates; that partners, not alienates; and that earns respect, not fear."
“Policing in the 21st century must evolve, and we are evolving deliberately,” he added.
The IGP also emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Armed Forces, other security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society, and the media in strengthening national security.
He further commended corporate partners and sponsors for their support, describing their contributions as vital to enhancing police welfare and operational effectiveness.
Reaffirming his commitment, Disu said the Nigeria Police Force under his leadership would prioritize integrity, discipline, and service.
“This will be a new era where trust is rebuilt, one action at a time,” he concluded.
The National Police Day is celebrated annually on April 7. The day is meant to honour the service, sacrifice, and dedication of police officers, including those who lost their lives in the line of duty.highlighting personnel drawn from various units, formations, and commands of the Force.,
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