The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olatunji Disu, has commended 24 retired officers of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos, for their 35 years of dedicated service to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the nation.
Disu gave the commendation in a goodwill message at the retirement ceremony organised by the SCID on Thursday at the department’s premises.
The I-G, who was in Lagos for other official engagements, made an unannounced stop at the SCID to personally congratulate the retirees on their meritorious service.
He expressed pride in their achievements and contributions to policing over the years, describing their 35 years of service as a testament to their commitment and dedication to duty.
The police boss noted that their years of sacrifice, commitment and dedication to duty would continue to be appreciated, assuring them that their contributions would never be forgotten.
Disu wished the retirees fulfilment and success as they began a new chapter of their lives, urging them to remain proud of their service and contributions to the Force.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DC) in charge of SCID, Panti, Mr Dayo Akinbisehin, described the event as a monumental milestone in the history of the Lagos State Police Command and the SCID.
Akinbisehin said the retirees represented decades of sacrifice, bravery and unwavering commitment to duty, noting that their careers involved working long hours, investigating complex cases and protecting communities under challenging circumstances.
He said the SCID, Panti, as the foremost police investigation department in Lagos, handled high-profile, complex and sensitive cases, adding that the retirees played significant roles in bringing suspects to justice despite the risks associated with their duties.
The DC commended the families of the retirees for their sacrifices and support throughout the officers’ careers, describing their spouses, children and friends as the “unsung heroes” behind their successful service.
He urged the retirees not to consider themselves strangers to the police, assuring them that the Nigeria Police Force and the department would always remain their home, while their experience and wisdom would continue to be valued.
Akinbisehin congratulated the 24 retirees and urged them to proceed into retirement with their heads held high, having served the nation with honour and contributed to the development of the department.
He also appreciated the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr Fatai Tijani, for approving the event, as well as the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, other well-wishers and corporate organisations for their support toward its success.
Speaking with journalists, one of the retirees, DSP Benson Emuerhi, said his years in the police had taught him that policing was essentially about service to humanity.
Emuerhi identified welfare and remuneration as some of the challenges confronting the police, saying improved welfare would enhance personnel’s effectiveness and commitment to duty.
He noted that police officers worked under demanding conditions, often round the clock, and required better remuneration and welfare packages to remain motivated and meet their responsibilities.
Emuerhi also called for stronger public support for the police, saying improved welfare would help address some of the challenges affecting policing and boost public confidence in the institution.
Also speaking, ASP Udoh Patrick, who retired after 35 years of service, advised serving police officers to maintain good relationships with members of the public.
Patrick urged personnel to demonstrate humility, honesty, moderation and respect in their interactions with citizens, while avoiding harsh treatment.
He appealed to members of the public not to see the police as enemies but as partners in maintaining peace and security.
According to him, regular interaction between the police and communities would help build trust and confidence in the Force.
Patrick further urged officers to handle exhibits and other recovered items responsibly, stressing that integrity was essential to strengthening public confidence in the police.
Another retiree, DSP Rita Momah, who said she served in Lagos State for about 35 years, expressed excitement about retiring and having the opportunity to rest after decades of service.
Momah said her years in the police had exposed her to various experiences, adding that the service also provided her with opportunities to learn important lessons and contribute to society.
