The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, on Saturday hailed what he described as strategic policing and exemplary commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians during the administration of the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Abiodun said that as the first Inspector-General of Police to be appointed from the state, Egbetokun demonstrated visionary and purposeful leadership anchored on integrity and professionalism, thereby bringing honour to Ogun State and serving as a model of diligence in national service.
The governor gave the commendation at a civic reception held in Ilaro by Egbetokun's kinsmen under the aegis of the Yewa People Development Council to celebrate his retirement after 35 years of meritorious service.
Abiodun said, "Today, we gather to celebrate a man whose journey is defined by discipline, courage, and an unwavering commitment to service, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD (retd.).
"His distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force, culminating in his service as the Inspector-General of Police, stands as a shining example of professionalism, integrity, and patriotism.
"Notably, he holds the enviable distinction of being the first indigene of Ogun State to rise to the position of Inspector-General of Police in our great nation.
"This is no small feat; it is a landmark achievement that has etched his name permanently in the annals of our history.
"As a government, we deeply appreciate his meritorious service to the nation. His tenure was marked by a firm commitment to national security, institutional reforms, and the strengthening of public trust in law enforcement."
He added, "Beyond national service, his impact resonates deeply here in Yewaland.
His contributions to enhancing the protection of lives and property, as well as his role in addressing farmers-herders conflicts in parts of this region, have not gone unnoticed.
"Through strategic interventions and collaborative security efforts, he helped restore confidence and stability in affected communities, thereby supporting agricultural productivity and peaceful coexistence.
"Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun represents the very best of Ogun State.
"He is a trailblazer, a role model, and a shining ambassador of our values. His story is a reminder that excellence is attainable, that integrity matters, and that service to humanity remains the highest calling."
The governor urged residents of the state to draw inspiration from the former IGP's record of service, adding that his administration remained committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
He also called on residents to prioritise peace and shun violence as the 2027 general elections approach.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, Olorundare Jimoh, described the former police chief as an exceptionally diligent, disciplined, and visionary officer whose contributions significantly reshaped policing in Nigeria.
He said Egbetokun's tenure recorded notable achievements in crime prevention, control, and management, leading to a significant reduction in crime across the country.
According to him, the former IGP left behind enduring legacies of integrity, patriotism, and service that would guide future generations of police officers.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation and senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Adeola, popularly called Yayi, commended Egbetokun for his contributions to strengthening the country's security architecture.
Adeola said he had known the former IGP for over 30 years as a dedicated and intelligent officer committed to national service.
He highlighted Egbetokun's role in establishing the N25bn police insurance fund, the creation of a Mobile Police base in Ilaro, and efforts toward establishing the University of Police in Erinja, noting that the bill had been passed by the National Assembly and awaited presidential assent.
He wished the retired IGP a fulfilling retirement, while urging him to continue contributing to national development.
The Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, also commended Egbetokun, describing him as a refined officer who used his office to serve humanity and contribute to development in the region.
In his response, Egbetokun, who was accompanied by his wife, Elizabeth, thanked his kinsmen for the reception in his honour.
He said his upbringing, rooted in integrity, contentment, and service to others, shaped his professional conduct throughout his career.
He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as the 22nd indigenous IGP, pledging continued commitment to service in retirement.
The Chairman of the Yewa People Development Council, Prof Rahman Bello, said the reception was organised to celebrate Egbetokun as a source of pride to the region and to inspire younger generations.
Dignitaries at the event included the Minister of State for Health, Dr Kunle Salako; former Ogun State Deputy Governor, Alhaja Salmot Badru; former Commissioner of Police, Olusola Amore; Bode Ojajuni, Ogun State Commissioner of Police; Kayode Ayilara; and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, among others.