The Inspector-General of Police, 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 and the nation.
Disu gave the commendation on Thursday during a retirement ceremony organised by the SCID at its premises in Lagos, where he made an unannounced stop while in the state for other official engagements to personally congratulate the retirees.
The I-G described their 35 years of service as a testament to their commitment, sacrifice and dedication to duty, assuring them that their contributions to policing and national security would remain appreciated and never be forgotten.
He wished the retirees fulfilment and success as they begin 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 in charge of SCID, Panti, Mr Dayo Akinbisehin, described the ceremony as a significant milestone in the history of the Lagos State Police Command and the department.
Akinbisehin said the retirees had spent decades investigating complex and sensitive cases, working long hours and protecting communities under challenging conditions, noting that their roles contributed significantly to bringing suspects to justice.
He also commended the families of the retirees for their sacrifices and support throughout the officers’ careers, describing spouses, children and friends as the “unsung heroes” behind their successful service.
The DC assured the retirees that the Nigeria Police Force and SCID would remain their home, adding that their experience and wisdom would continue to be valued.
Speaking with journalists, one of the retirees, DSP Benson Emuerhi, said his years in the police taught him that policing was fundamentally about service to humanity.
Emuerhi called for improved welfare and remuneration for serving officers, saying better working conditions would enhance their effectiveness, motivation and commitment to duty.
Another retiree, ASP Udoh Patrick, urged serving officers to maintain cordial relationships with members of the public and demonstrate humility, honesty, moderation and respect in their dealings with citizens.
Patrick also appealed to the public to see the police as partners in maintaining peace and security, stressing that regular engagement between communities and the police would strengthen trust and confidence.
He further urged officers to maintain integrity in handling exhibits and recovered items, noting that responsible conduct was essential to restoring public confidence in the Force.
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Also speaking, DSP Rita Momah, who served in Lagos State for about 35 years, expressed excitement about her retirement, saying the milestone offered her an opportunity to rest after decades of service.
Momah said her career exposed her to diverse experiences and valuable lessons while providing opportunities to contribute to society.
