Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has been honoured with the Silent Heroes Award, a prestigious recognition for individuals making outstanding contributions without seeking public applause. The award ceremony took place over the weekend at the Wells Carlton Hotel in Asokoro, Abuja.
Egbetokun was celebrated for his strategic leadership and quiet revolution in Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly his aggressive stance against armed robbery and kidnapping. The award was received on his behalf by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi.
Organisers of the award praised the IGP for changing the narrative in Nigeria’s security sector through key reforms such as the formation of the Special Intervention Squad, large-scale rehabilitation of police barracks, and improvement of policing infrastructure across the country.
A standout initiative under his leadership is the commissioning of the Nigeria Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja—an institutional hub for strategic training and innovation. Similar projects are being replicated in Lagos and other parts of the country.
Since taking office, the Police under Egbetokun has made substantial strides: over 30,000 suspects arrested, 1,984 firearms recovered, 23,250 rounds of ammunition seized, and 1,581 kidnapped victims rescued. In a space of three months, intelligence-led operations resulted in the rescue of over 300 kidnapped persons and more than 10,000 arrests.
Community policing has been a cornerstone of Egbetokun’s strategy, enhancing collaboration between law enforcement and residents, and reinforcing trust in the Force. His reforms have also embraced digital technology and intelligence gathering to combat crime more efficiently.
To promote integrity and professionalism within the Force, the IGP launched the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendation Ceremony, which celebrates officers who demonstrate exceptional service and discipline.
The Silent Heroes Award affirms Egbetokun’s commitment to silent but impactful leadership, and reinforces the need for sustained reforms to secure the country and restore public confidence in the police.
