The Sango Ota Command of the Nigeria Police Force has marked history by hosting the maiden edition of National Police Day at the Sango Ota axis of Ogun State. This landmark event featured a series of impactful humanitarian and community-centered engagements aimed at strengthening police-community relations and fostering public trust.
The National Police Day was officially declared by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on April 19, 2024, during the Nigeria Police Award and Commendation Ceremony in Abuja. Designed to celebrate the dedication, sacrifices, and achievements of the Nigeria Police Force, this day serves as a platform to recognize the pivotal role of the Force in safeguarding lives and property while reinforcing collaboration between the police and the public.
Beyond the celebrations, National Police Day also honors the bravery of fallen officers who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. It stands as a tribute to their commitment to protecting the nation and as an inspiration for officers to continue upholding the highest standards of service and integrity.
The event commenced with the Area Commander of the Sango Ota Police Command, ACP Shola Oladele, leading a team of officers and personnel on a sanitation exercise. This initiative aimed to not only maintain environmental cleanliness but also educate the public on the importance of regular sanitation in fostering a healthier society.
In a bid to instill law-abiding values in the younger generation, the command organized a school outreach program. Students were educated on the importance of obeying laws, maintaining orderliness, and avoiding societal vices that could lead to criminal activities. The initiative emphasized the role of youths in shaping a safer and more law-abiding community.
A key highlight of the event was a town hall meeting attended by residents, community leaders, and indigenes of Sango Ota. During the session, ACP Oladele underscored the importance of a close-knit police-community relationship, emphasizing that the police exist to serve and protect the people. She urged residents to see the police as allies rather than an enforcement body that disregards their rights.
Furthering the conversation on enhanced security and collaboration, a high-level stakeholders’ meeting took place at the Area Command. This gathering brought together representatives from various security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for strengthening police-community relations and ensuring effective crime prevention measures.
ACP Shola Oladele expressed profound appreciation to the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, for his leadership in overseeing police activities across the state. She also commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his unwavering commitment to professional excellence and public service within the Force.
Earlier, the IGP had called on Nigerians to join in celebrating the gallant officers of the Nigeria Police Force for their invaluable contributions to national security. He reiterated that National Police Day stands as a testament to the resilience, dedication, and courage of police personnel and serves as an inspiration for future generations to uphold the highest ideals of service, discipline, and integrity.
As Nigeria moves forward with renewed efforts in security and law enforcement, the successful maiden edition of National Police Day at Sango Ota serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for stronger police-public engagement nationwide.
