By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Acting Inspector General of Police has expressed his administration’s readiness for the groundwork towards the enhancement of the Police Reform and Transformation Office (PORTO) – a Presidential initiative aimed at supporting the root and branch reform efforts of the Nigeria Police Force.
The IGP made the assurance on Wednesday in his office at the Force Headquarters, when the coordinator of PORTO, Mr. Tunji Lardner, led some other officials of the office on a courtesy visit to Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun the Acting Inspector-General of Police. The IGP reiterated that PORTO serves as a catalyst for change and transformation within the NPF, encompassing various measures such as comprehensive training, enhanced logistics support, and modernization of policing practices.
Under the visionary leadership of the IGP, the Nigeria Police Force recognizes the need for progressive reforms to enhance effectiveness, efficiency, and public trust in the Police Force. PORTO is designed to champion these reforms, bringing about a new era of professionalism, accountability, and service excellence. Through targeted training, officers will receive the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively tackle modern-day challenges and ensure the protection and safety of all citizens.
In his response, Mr. Lardner reassured the IGP that the mandate of PORTO encompasses an overhaul of logistics support systems to provide officers with the tools and resources they need to carry out their duties effectively. While briefing the IGP on their support to the Police so far, he confirmed that PORTO has concluded plans to harness all its resources to fulfill its mandate for transforming and repositioning the police as expected.
The Inspector-General of Police called on all stakeholders, including the public, civil society organizations, and the media, to support and engage with the PORTO initiative as the NPF remains resolute in its commitment to delivering exceptional service, upholding the rule of law, and fostering a culture of accountability within the police force.