A retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Abiodun Asabi, has highlighted inadequate support, particularly in terms of funding, as a major challenge facing the Nigeria Police Force.
Asabi, a former Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, made the call while speaking with journalists at his retirement and pull-out parade in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Monday, March 3.
Asabi urged the Federal Government and other stakeholders to provide more funding and assistance to the police in their efforts to tackle the rising wave of criminality and insecurity across Nigeria.
He stressed that, based on his 35 years of service in the police, a lack of sufficient support from Nigerians was a significant barrier to the force’s effectiveness.
“From my experience, people need to support the police much more than they are doing now. This is lacking, There are many benefits to collective efforts with the police. All stakeholders, those who care about the security of the nation, should rally around and support the force so that they can perform better and help move the country forward.” Asabi said.
Asabi expressed his pride in having served the Nigeria Police Force, describing his tenure as a fulfilling one. He added that his service was always dedicated to the betterment of the country.
“It’s a thing of joy to have served Nigeria. The service to the country is worthwhile. I love my country, which is why I enlisted in the force and have never regretted it,” he said.
In addition, the retired police officer urged his colleagues in the force to carry out their duties with integrity, professionalism, fairness, and transparency, while steering clear of corruption that could tarnish the force’s reputation.
Asabi’s colleagues and dignitaries present at the ceremony praised his leadership, integrity, and dedication to crime prevention and police welfare.
They hailed him as an exemplary officer whose legacy would inspire future generations of police officers.
Asabi, born on April 16, 1965, in Lagos and hailing from Gbongan in Osun State, joined the Nigeria Police Force as a cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police on March 3, 1990.
He concluded his distinguished service with a legacy of commitment to the force and the nation.
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