Africa
Setting The Record Straight On Police Welfare Under IGP Egbetokun -By Adewole Kehinde
Beyond the Nigeria Police leadership itself, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has equally demonstrated unwavering commitment to a comprehensive and meaningful overhaul of police welfare, training and recruitment. From improved funding frameworks to structural reforms aimed at professionalism and efficiency, the Tinubu administration has not relented in its resolve to reposition the Nigeria Police Force as a modern, citizen-focused institution.
Public discourse on national security and police welfare must be guided by facts, not conjecture. This is why the recent claim by Mr Chikwe Udensi, a System Consultant and representative of the Interpol Central Bureau, made while appearing on Arise News on Friday, December 12, 2025, deserves a firm and factual rebuttal.
Mr Udensi alleged that personnel of the Nigeria Police Force still buy their own uniforms, belts and related accoutrements. This assertion is not only misleading but also fundamentally incorrect, especially in the context of the current leadership of the Nigeria Police Force under the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
Contrary to Mr Udensi’s claim, Nigeria Police personnel under IGP Egbetokun do not buy their own uniforms, belts or essential kits. In a decisive move to address longstanding welfare concerns and boost officer morale, the Inspector-General of Police, in January 2025, initiated the nationwide distribution of new, customised kits and uniforms to personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. This initiative was deliberately designed to improve welfare, enhance professionalism, and project a more dignified and confident appearance of officers across the country.
It is important to remind Mr Udensi that this nationwide distribution of customised kits and uniforms is an ongoing exercise, not a one-off gesture. The programme reflects IGP Egbetokun’s deep commitment to improving the working conditions and operational readiness of police personnel. More importantly, it is part of a broader welfare reform agenda, with additional welfare projects already anticipated following the approval and implementation of the 2026 budget.
In the course of my interactions with many serving police officers across different commands, a consistent sentiment has emerged: excitement, gratitude, and renewed confidence in the leadership of the Force. Many officers have openly expressed their appreciation for the IGP’s initiative, describing it as a clear departure from the neglect of the past and a signal that their sacrifices are finally being acknowledged at the highest level.
Beyond the Nigeria Police leadership itself, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has equally demonstrated unwavering commitment to a comprehensive and meaningful overhaul of police welfare, training and recruitment. From improved funding frameworks to structural reforms aimed at professionalism and efficiency, the Tinubu administration has not relented in its resolve to reposition the Nigeria Police Force as a modern, citizen-focused institution.
In conclusion, the vision of IGP Kayode Egbetokun for the Nigeria Police Force remains clear and unwavering: a well-equipped, motivated and professional workforce capable of guaranteeing national safety and security. This vision is being steadily realised through ongoing welfare projects, institutional reforms and deliberate investments in the well-being of officers. Assertions that ignore these realities do a disservice to the truth and undermine the genuine progress being made within the Nigeria Police Force.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. email: kennyadewole@gmail.com X: kennyadewole
