The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has honoured two retiring senior officers, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Adegoke Fayoade and Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Ronke Okunade, in recognition of their meritorious service spanning over three decades.
The officers were celebrated at a pull-out ceremony held in their honour at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu, represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Research and Planning, Ibrahim Babazango, congratulated the retiring officers, describing their careers as distinguished and fulfilling.
Disu commended them for their dedication, professionalism, discipline and sacrifices, noting that their contributions to the growth and development of the Force would remain cherished.
He wished them good health, peace and happiness as they begin a new chapter of their lives, adding that their years of service reflected a commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining law and order and serving the Nigerian people.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Fayoade expressed gratitude to God, the police leadership, colleagues, family members and other stakeholders for their support throughout their careers.
He described retirement as an opportunity to reflect on a journey characterised by sacrifice, discipline, professional growth, friendship and service to humanity.
The retired DIG noted that policing required courage, commitment and dedication to public service, stressing that effective policing also depended on public trust, institutional integrity, accountability and cooperation among stakeholders.
He paid glowing tribute to Okunade, describing her as a woman of integrity and professionalism. He recalled that their longstanding friendship began when they were neighbours and developed over the years through shared experiences and mutual support.
Fayoade also commended her ability to balance the demands of police service with her responsibilities as a wife and mother, describing her as an officer of impeccable character.
He expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, the Police Service Commission, past and present police leadership, colleagues and other stakeholders for the opportunities and support extended to them throughout their careers.
He particularly acknowledged officers who worked with them in different commands and formations, noting that their cooperation contributed significantly to the successful execution of their assignments.
The retired DIG also remembered colleagues who lost their lives in the course of service, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
He urged serving officers to remain committed to professionalism, discipline and the protection of lives and property, stressing that the quality of service rendered and the positive impact made on society ultimately define a police officer’s legacy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Fayoade and Okunade were members of Cadet ASP Course 17/1992.
Fayoade served in the Nigeria Police Force for 34 years and six months, while Okunade completed 34 years of service.
Fayoade served as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Police Command, and later as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Information and Communication Technology, Abuja, from where he retired.
Okunade served as Commissioner of Police, General Investigation, Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Lagos; Commissioner of Police, Special Fraud Unit, Ikoyi; and retired as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command.
