Prepared Long Before The Ember Months: Why Nigerians Can Travel With Confidence This Yuletide -By Adewole Kehinde

He who fails to plan, plans to fail. – Benjamin Franklin

When the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, stated that “We don’t wait for the ember months to come before we prepare. We have been preparing for this period long before now.” He was not merely offering reassurance; he was articulating a philosophy of proactive policing that has become increasingly evident across Nigeria.

For most Nigerians, the Yuletide season is a period of reunion, reflection, and celebration. It is also a time when concerns about safety, road travel, and public order traditionally come to the fore.

This year, however, there is growing confidence that citizens can conveniently travel home and celebrate Christmas and the New Year, largely because adequate security measures have been strategically put in place well ahead of time by the Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun.

True to his words, the Inspector-General of Police has ordered the strategic deployment of police personnel and operational assets across the country to ensure a safe, peaceful, and crime-free festive season. This forward-looking directive underscores a shift from reactive security responses to sustained, intelligence-driven preparation.

Of particular note is the clear directive to all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and State Command Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, and confidence-building engagements throughout the Yuletide period. These measures not only deter criminal elements but also reassure law-abiding citizens that the police are present, alert, and responsive.

The scope of preparedness is further strengthened by the heightened operational readiness of specialised units. The Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Airwing have all been placed on alert. This multi-layered approach reflects a comprehensive security architecture designed to address diverse threats, whether on land, water, or air.

Perhaps the most unique and commendable aspect of the IGP’s directive is its deliberate focus on high-density public spaces. Deployments have been prioritised around places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, and critical national infrastructure. These are areas where large numbers of citizens naturally converge during the festive season, and securing them is central to guaranteeing a hitch-free celebration.

In addition, extra patrol teams and surveillance units have been activated along interstate routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, traffic disorder, and accidents. Importantly, deployed officers have been charged to be firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties, reinforcing professionalism and respect for citizens’ rights.

The IGP also deserves commendation for ordering all Commands to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts, and flashpoints, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders. This integrated approach recognises that effective security is a shared responsibility that thrives on cooperation and timely intelligence.

While the Nigeria Police Force has demonstrated preparedness and commitment, Nigerians too have a role to play. Citizens must support the Inspector-General of Police by remaining vigilant, celebrating responsibly, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines.

In conclusion, the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, must continue to assure Nigerians of its steadfast devotion to safeguarding lives and property. With sustained professionalism, proactive planning, and public cooperation, Nigerians can enjoy the Yuletide season and beyond in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and security.

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. email: kennyadewole@gmail.com X: @kennyadewole