The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, stressed the importance of increasing the number of police officers in the country during his visit to the Kwara State Police Command in Ilorin, Kwara State.
He expressed concern about the challenging work conditions faced by police personnel, noting that, on average, one policeman performs the duties of two individuals.
Egbetokun acknowledged the strain on officers who often transition from night to morning duties, highlighting the unfortunate situation where officers, exhausted from their demanding schedules, may inadvertently doze off in public, becoming subjects of ridicule through shared photographs.
Addressing the shortage of manpower, he mentioned that President Bola Tinubu recently approved an annual increase in police recruitment to gradually address the issue.
Egbetokun emphasized the need to double the strength of the police force in the country, recognizing that this process would take time.
He outlined the administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of police officers, including considerations for salary increases and improvements in other areas.
Additionally, the Inspector General assured that efforts would be made to equip the Police Force adequately.
He pledged to prioritize insurance plans to safeguard the well-being of officers.
Reflecting on his tenure as Commissioner of Police in Kwara, Egbetokun commended the sacrifices made by the police personnel in maintaining peace and security in the state.
During a courtesy visit to the Emir of Ilorin, he expressed gratitude for the monarch’s support during his service in Kwara from 2019 to 2020.
Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, also addressed the need for enhanced security measures, requesting the supply of an armoured personnel carrier.
This, he believes, would contribute to the improved security of banks and enhance the overall crime-fighting capacity of the police force.
