Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has revealed that his life and career experienced a significant transformation after meeting President Bola Tinubu in 1998. Egbetokun made this disclosure during the unveiling of a book in his honor titled “Readings in Policing, Peace, and Security” in Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, Egbetokun expressed deep gratitude for the impact Tinubu has had on his journey, recounting how their meeting in 1998 changed his life within just 24 hours. “I met President Bola Tinubu in 1998, and that meeting produced a positive transformation in my life within 24 hours,” Egbetokun stated, hinting at a story he promised to share in full at a later time.
Egbetokun’s connection with Tinubu dates back to his time as a Deputy Superintendent of Police in 1999 when he served as the Chief Security Officer to then-Governor Tinubu in Lagos State. Following Tinubu’s election as President in May 2023, Egbetokun was appointed as the IGP in June, succeeding Usman Baba.
Although Egbetokun is slated to retire this September upon reaching the age of 60, recent amendments to the Police Act by the National Assembly may extend his tenure, sparking speculation about Tinubu’s intentions to keep him in office.
During the event, President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, praised Egbetokun’s dedication to justice, peace, and security, describing him as a paragon of integrity and professionalism. Tinubu noted that the book is a fitting tribute to a man who has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s policy landscape.
Reflecting on his career, Egbetokun expressed hope that the book would serve as both a reference material and a source of inspiration for young officers in the field of policing and security. “This book is not just a reference material; it is also going to inspire the new generation of law enforcement officers in Nigeria,” he remarked.
The event underscored the deep bond between Egbetokun and Tinubu, a relationship that has shaped the former’s career and continues to influence Nigeria’s security framework.
