By Bukola Olamona

In a bold move to reward gallantry and boost morale among its ranks, the Nigeria Police Force has rolled out plans for the second edition of its annual Police Awards and Commendations, slated for Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja.

The grand event, approved by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is tailored to celebrate officers who have displayed uncommon bravery, professionalism, integrity, and outstanding service across the Force.

Disclosing this in a statement made available to Saturday PUNCH, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the initiative forms a vital part of the IGP’s strategic blueprint to raise the bar of motivation, welfare, and operational excellence in the police system.

According to Adejobi, the ceremony—being organised in conjunction with Lenders Consult International—will spotlight high-performing officers through a rich variety of award categories including: Crime Buster of the Year, Community Policing Advocate of the Year, Detective of the Year, Police Sports Person of the Year, DPO of the Year, Area Commander of the Year, Patrol Team of the Year, and Traffic Officer of the Year.

Also on the honours list are prestigious awards for Gallantry and Integrity, alongside the top-tier Police Officer of the Year award.

Not left out are the IGP Special Recognition Awards, targeted at personnel who have left indelible marks in specialised fields such as legal practice, public relations, and medical services.

The Force assured Nigerians of a rigorous and transparent selection process. Nominations, the statement noted, were sourced from all arms of the Force including the Force Headquarters, zonal and state commands, as well as area and divisional offices.

To vet the entries, a dedicated committee—comprising senior police officers and a representative from Lenders Consult International—scrutinised the nominations before final selections were made by the Force Management Team under the watch of the IGP.

“The meticulous process underscored our commitment to transparency and shielded the awards from undue interference,” the statement read.

Reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of officers, IGP Egbetokun declared that the Force remains unshaken in its resolve to implement policies that elevate the living and working standards of its personnel. He maintained that outstanding performance and dedication would not go unnoticed.

“Those who give their best in service of the nation will be duly celebrated,” he stressed.