By Mena David
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has commended police officers who serve with integrity and commitment, emphasizing that such officers retire with pride, fulfillment, and a legacy of honor. He made these remarks on December 31, 2024, at the Police College in Ikeja, Lagos, during the pull-out ceremony for Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Abiodun Alabi and Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) Ayodeji Ogundele and Olanrewaju Olaosebikan.
Egbetokun praised the retiring officers for their dedication, professionalism, and resilience. “Their integrity, professionalism, and passion for the Nigeria Police have been the cornerstone of their remarkable service to our nation,” he stated.
Highlighting their achievements, the IGP noted DIG Alabi’s extraordinary vision and leadership in the Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID). He credited AIG Ayodeji Ogundele with transformative leadership at the Force CID Annex and recognized AIG Olanrewaju Olaosebikan’s outstanding contributions at the Force Headquarters.
The Journey of DIG Abiodun Alabi
DIG Abiodun Alabi, born on December 31, 1964, in Ilawe Ekiti, earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Lagos in 1986 and a master’s degree in the same field from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in 1989. He joined the Nigeria Police Force in March 1990 as a cadet officer.
In January 2022, Alabi succeeded Hakeem Odumosu as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police. Prior to that, he served as the Commissioner of Police for Bauchi State and the Central Criminal Registry at the Force CID Annex in Alagbon, Lagos. His career also included roles as Deputy Commissioner of Police in Taraba and Ekiti States, and as Assistant Commissioner of Police with the elite Police Mobile Force.
Alabi is a fellow of the Nigerian National Defence College, a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management, and an affiliate of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Reflections and Farewell
DIG Abiodun Alabi, along with AIGs Ayodeji Ogundele and Olanrewaju Olaosebikan, retired at the statutory age of 60, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to the nation. Reflecting on his career, Alabi emphasized the importance of ethical leadership and leading by example. He urged officers to remain committed to their duties while upholding the rule of law and ethical standards.
As he bid farewell, Alabi expressed a deep attachment to the police uniform, which he described as a symbol of authority and service. “I will miss the uniform and the daily interactions with people,” he said. “Serving humanity has been my greatest fulfillment.”
A Celebration of Distinguished Service
The ceremony celebrated the remarkable careers of officers who dedicated their lives to the service of the nation. Their professionalism, commitment, and resilience remain an inspiration for the next generation of police officers.
