Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu, has honoured 24 police officers who retired after 35 years of meritorious service to the Nigeria Police Force, commending their decades of sacrifice, dedication and contribution to policing and national security.
The officers were honoured on Thursday by the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, during a ceremony held at the department’s premises to celebrate their retirement from active service.
In a goodwill message to the retirees, Disu congratulated the officers on successfully completing 35 years of service to the Force and the nation, describing their careers as a testament to commitment and dedication to duty.
The IGP expressed pride in their achievements and contributions over the years, noting that their service had formed part of the efforts to protect lives and property, investigate crimes and maintain law and order across the country.
Disu assured the retirees that their departure from active service did not mean they were leaving the Nigeria Police Force or losing their place within the police family.
He said the experience, knowledge and professional contributions they accumulated during their years in service remained valuable to the Force, adding that the sacrifices they made in the course of their duties would continue to be appreciated.
The IGP wished them fulfilment and success as they entered a new chapter of their lives and urged them to remain proud of their service to Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the SCID, Yaba, DCP Dayo Akinbisehin, described the retirement ceremony as a monumental milestone in the history of the Lagos State Police Command and the department.
Akinbisehin said the 24 retirees represented decades of sacrifice, bravery and unwavering commitment to duty, having spent a significant part of their lives serving the country through policing.
He noted that their careers were defined by demanding assignments, long working hours and the responsibility of responding to security challenges in difficult circumstances.
The DCP particularly highlighted the demanding nature of criminal investigation, explaining that the SCID, Panti, as one of the foremost police investigation departments in Lagos State, routinely handles high-profile, complex and sensitive criminal cases.
He said officers attached to the department are often required to investigate serious offences, work under pressure, gather evidence and pursue suspects with the ultimate responsibility of ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.
According to him, the retirees made significant contributions to these responsibilities throughout their careers and played important roles in strengthening the department’s investigative work.
Akinbisehin said the service rendered by the retirees should be viewed beyond the number of years they spent in uniform, stressing that their 35 years represented decades of personal sacrifice and commitment to the safety of communities.
He acknowledged that police officers often perform their duties under circumstances that require them to put the interests of the public ahead of their personal comfort and safety.
He therefore commended the retirees for remaining committed to their responsibilities and for contributing their knowledge and experience to the development of policing during their active years.
