…Says Establishment Is Not Only Timely But A Strategic Necessity
The Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has disclosed that the establishment of the Nigerian Police Band in Lagos State is not only timely but a strategic necessity.
He made this known on Friday during the commissioning of the Lagos State Police Command Band in Ikeja, where he said that the absence of a command band has remained a notable institutional gap despite Lagos State’s strategic importance.
This is the first time that since its establishment, the Lagos State Police Command had a band of its own, ending years of reliance on the Force Headquarters Band.
Egbetokun assured that efforts would be made to modernise the band through the provision of modern musical instruments and other resources, stressing that the initiative forms part of a broader approach to institutional and professional development.
He also commended the commissioner of police and the Lagos State command leadership for their commitment and urged other commands across the country to strengthen institutional capacity and professionalism.
The police chief officially launched the Lagos State Police Band for operational and ceremonial use, charging its members to uphold high standards of discipline and professionalism.
In his opening remarks, the CP, Olohundare Jimoh, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the evolution of the Lagos State command and the Nigerian Police Force at large.
“The establishment of the Nigerian Police Band in Lagos State is not only timely but a strategic necessity.
“It will enhance the professional image of the police, boost officers’ morale, and deepen engagement with the public,” he said.
He expressed deep gratitude to the I-G for personally attending the ceremony in spite of his extremely tight schedule, noting that his presence underscored the importance of the initiative.
According to the commissioner, the establishment of the police band in Lagos State represents a strategic and institutional advancement aimed at strengthening professionalism, morale, and public trust in the police.
He noted that the Nigerian Police Band traced its origins to its modest establishment at the Police College in 1966.
He said that the band had since grown into a respected unit renowned for excellence in regimental duties, ceremonial engagements, social functions, entertainment, and other official responsibilities.
