IGP Egbetokun Commissions Lagos State Police Command Band

IGP Egbetokun Commissions Lagos State Police Command Band

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Friday officially commissioned the Lagos State Police Command Band, deqscribing it as a strategic institutional asset that enhances discipline, professionalism, and public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Lagos, the IGP said the Nigeria Police Band, through its consistent excellence, professional conduct, and high-quality performances, has continued to project the Police Force positively at both official and non-official events across the country.

According to him, the band’s performances have brought prominence to police ceremonies, elevated their dignity, and extended the influence of the Force beyond routine operational duties.

“There is also an intangible value to the Police Band. Whenever it performs, it inspires pride and healthy competition among officers and members of the public alike. Without mincing words, its music communicates discipline, unity, and national purpose,” the IGP said.

He noted that this “quiet but powerful” role explains why the Police Band occupies a special place within the institution, adding that its professionalism and musical culture have, over time, helped shift public perception and inspire confidence in the Police Force.

The IGP observed that it was not surprising that some graduates of the Nigeria Police Academy deliberately seek posting into the Police Band, drawn by its standards, cultural depth, and progressive outlook.

“There is no doubt that the Police Band has remained a source of pride to our institution over the years, and its inspirational music has consistently projected the Police positively,” he added.

Egbetokun said the commissioning of the Lagos State Command Band underscores the Force’s recognition of the band as a critical asset, assuring that deliberate efforts would be made to further strengthen it.

He disclosed plans to modernize the band’s operations through the acquisition of modern musical equipment and supporting resources, in line with contemporary performance standards.

“This commissioning should not be seen merely as a ceremonial project, but as part of our broader human development strategy. Professional policing is not sustained by administration alone; it is rooted in discipline, progression, and pride in service,” the IGP stated.

He commended the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh, for the initiative, describing the establishment of the band as evidence of leadership that pays attention to institutional legacy and detail.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, expressed gratitude to the IGP for personally attending the historic event, noting that the establishment of the band was the first of its kind in the command.

“Officers and men of the Lagos State Command are deeply grateful to the Inspector-General of Police for finding time, despite his tight schedule, to be here in person to commission and launch the Command Band,” he said.

The CP described the event as a significant milestone in the history of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the Lagos Command, recalling the modest beginnings of the Police Band at the Police College, Ikeja, in 1966, and its evolution into a standard bearer for ceremonial, parade, and entertainment engagements.

He noted that Lagos State Command, being the most complex and highly scrutinized police command in the country, operates within the demanding environment of a megacity that hosts the highest concentration of national and international investments.

“The absence of a command band over the years was a notable institutional gap. Its establishment is not just historical but a strategic necessity that will enhance public trust, boost morale, and strengthen the professional image of the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.

The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, who also spoke at the event, congratulated the IGP on the historic launch and described the relationship between the Police and the Judiciary as cordial and enduring.

He recalled that since becoming a judge in 1996, the Police Band has consistently performed at legal year parades and church services.

“I have come here today to say thank you,” the Chief Judge said.

Justice Alogba commended CP Jimoh for the initiative, noting that music plays a vital role in easing tension and stress, particularly for personnel in the security sector who work round the clock.

“When you return from stressful duties and listen to good music, the tension eases. That alone shows the importance of this band—not just to the Police, but to Nigerians who enjoy their performances,” he added.