In a compelling address at the 2023 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) General Assembly, the Nigerian Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has highlighted the critical role of law enforcement in addressing global security challenges and effective crisis management.
According to an official statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi noted that the event took place on October 16, 2023, at Assembly Ball Room 20.
A key moment during the conference was a presentation by Kathleen O’Toole, retired Chief of the Seattle Police Department, who delivered an insightful discourse titled “Leadership Reflections: Navigating through Crisis.” Her presentation provided valuable insights into effective crisis management within the law enforcement community.
IGP Egbetokun received recognition from the President of the IACP and other prominent law enforcement chiefs in America. He was accompanied by a distinguished delegation, including several high-ranking officials from the Nigerian Police Force, such as DIG Department of Finance and Administration Bala Ciroma, DIG Habu Sani, DIG Intelligence Department, AIG INTERPOL Lanre Bankole, AIG PMF, AIG Yekini Ayoku, CP INTERPOL Stanley Ude, DCP Operations Oyo State Akinade Adejobi, the Force PRO ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and the IGPs PA CSP Adebowale Ganiyu, among others.
The Honourable Minister of State, Ministry of Police Affairs, Hajia Imman Sulaiman-Ibrahim, along with representatives from various Nigerian law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian Customs Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, EFCC, and local security experts, were also present at the general assembly.
One of the highlights of this year’s Assembly was the recognition of the IACP Officer of the Year. This award celebrates the exceptional contributions made by law enforcement officers in the execution of their duties. Officer Nathan Gadson of the Houston Police Department, Texas, emerged as the recipient of the 2023 IACP/Axon Police Officer of the Year Award.
In his address, Ag. IGP Egbetokun emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating outstanding achievements in the field of law enforcement. He encouraged officers of the Nigeria Police Force to aspire to greatness and consider submitting their exceptional work for global recognition and awards. Such recognition not only elevates the law enforcement profession but also serves as an inspiring example for others, embodying qualities of selflessness, empathy, and unwavering strength of character.
Furthermore, the IGP announced his commitment to implementing a reward system within the Nigeria Police, with plans to honor exceptional officers at the upcoming Police Award Night scheduled at the end of the year. The selection process for identifying exemplary officers is already underway.
This year’s IACP General Assembly showcased the significance of international cooperation and exchange of ideas in the field of law enforcement, reaffirming the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to excellence in service and the pursuit of global best practices.