Destiny in one’s life is always a result of efforts, dedication, and commitment. The attainment of higher positions in life is shaped by various driving forces, which can be inherent traits and a strong desire to succeed.
The new Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is no exception to this rule. His journey to his current position has been marked by ups and downs, as is the case for anyone destined for greatness. He has become a game changer, a catalyst for change, thriving against all odds.
In the field of law enforcement, true game changers emerge, transforming traditional approaches and paving the way for innovation and progress. Kayode Egbetokun, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, is one such visionary leader. With an exceptional career spanning decades, his appointment as Acting IGP represents a significant turning point in Nigeria’s law enforcement landscape. This article explores Egbetokun’s distinguished career, his appointment as Acting IGP, his dynamic vision for the police, and the objectives and strategies he employs as a game changer.
Kayode Egbetokun’s illustrious career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the prestigious University of Lagos, an MSc in Engineering Analysis from the same institution, a Certificate in Electronic Data Processing/Computer Programming, an MBA from Lagos State University, a PGD in Petroleum Economics from Delta State University, Abraka, and a Ph.D. in Peace and Security Studies from Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Egbetokun’s journey in law enforcement has left an indelible mark. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a rare combination of competence, dedication, and strategic thinking.
Egbetokun’s career achievements are numerous and impactful. Prior to his appointment as the Acting 22nd indigenous Inspector-General of Police of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he served in various capacities, including Chief Security Officer to the Governor of Lagos State, Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in the Lagos State Police Command, where he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives to curb crime and promote community engagement. He also held positions such as Officer in Charge of Anti-Fraud Section, FCT Police Command, Abuja; Chief Superintendent of Police (Admin), Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja; Area Commander, Osogbo, Osun State Police Command; Area Commander, Gusau, Zamfara State Police Command; Commandant, Police Training School, Ikeja, Lagos; Deputy Commandant, Police College Ikeja, Lagos; Commissioner of Police, SERVICOM, Force Headquarters, Abuja; Commissioner of Police, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Force Headquarters, Abuja; Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Police Command, Ilorin; Commissioner of Police, Medical Admin, Falomo, Lagos State; Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, FCT; and Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
It is worth noting that Egbetokun has attended several professional courses both domestically and internationally, including the Cadet Officers Course 16 at the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano; Strategic Leadership and Effective Security/Safety Management Course at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Shere Hills, Jos; Squadron Commander Course, PMF Training College, Gwoza, Borno State; Combat Operation Course, PMF Training College, Ila Orangun, Osun State; Advance Detective Course (ADC), Police Staff College, Jos; Intermediate Command Course (ICC), Police Staff College, Jos; Strategic Leadership & Command Course (SLCC), Squadron Commander/Combat Operations Course, PMF Training College (Desert Camp Gwoza, Forest Camp Ila); Global Conference on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats, Lyon, France, among others.
Recognizing Egbetokun’s outstanding track record and transformative leadership qualities, he was appointed as the Acting Inspector-General of Police on June 19th, 2023, by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. His appointment has brought a refreshing sense of hope and tranquility to the policing environment, as he brings a fresh perspective and a determination to revolutionize the Nigeria Police Force.
Acting IGP Egbetokun’s expertise in mathematics equips him to transform the Nigeria Police Force by applying analytical thinking and data-driven strategies. He envisions a Police Force that is professionally competent, service-driven, compliant with the rule of law, and people-friendly. He aims to create a Police Force that effectively supports the government’s agenda for economic recovery, growth, and social and political development in Nigeria. His vision embodies professionalism, efficiency, accountability, and goes beyond traditional law enforcement practices, seeking to establish the police as a trusted ally of the Nigerian people.
Egbetokun aims to create an environment where the Police Force works hand-in-hand with communities, fostering mutual respect and collaboration, with the aim of making the Police the primary institution for internal security in Nigeria.
The Acting IGP’s leadership qualities and strategies in tackling complex security challenges have earned him widespread respect and admiration from his peers and the public. This piece seeks to highlight the objectives and strategies for repositioning the Nigeria Police Force in the right direction, serving as a crucial template for the overall reforms needed in the Force.
First and foremost on his priority list is the restructuring of policing methodologies. Egbetokun recognizes the need for a paradigm shift in how policing is approached. He advocates for intelligence-led policing, emphasizing proactive measures to prevent crime rather than a reactive approach. By leveraging technology, data analytics, and information sharing, Egbetokun aims to enhance the police force’s ability to anticipate and effectively combat emerging threats.
Furthermore, to achieve lasting change, Egbetokun places great emphasis on the empowerment of police officers. He believes in investing in their welfare, training, and professional development. By equipping officers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills, he aims to foster a culture of excellence and enhance their overall effectiveness in serving the public.
The police boss also understands that building trust and establishing strong partnerships with the community are essential for effective law enforcement. He seeks to bridge the gap between the police and the public through community-oriented policing initiatives. By actively engaging with citizens, involving community leaders, and promoting dialogue, he aims to create an atmosphere of cooperation and shared responsibility in maintaining public safety.
Acting IGP Kayode Egbetokun is undeniably a game changer, revolutionizing the Nigeria Police Force through visionary leadership and innovative strategies. With a focus on restructuring policing methodologies, empowering officers, fostering community partnerships, and promoting transparency, he is poised to create a Police Force that not only addresses security challenges but also becomes a beacon of trust and reliability for the Nigerian people.