“How Tinubu Transformed My Life Within 24 Hours of Our 1998 Meeting” – IGP Egbetokun

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has recounted how a brief encounter with President Bola Tinubu in 1998 drastically changed the course of his life within just 24 hours.

Speaking at the unveiling of a book in his honor, titled “Readings in Policing, Peace, and Security,” at the Police Conference Centre in Abuja, Egbetokun reflected on the profound impact that Tinubu, who was then a governor, had on his career as a young police officer.

“Meeting President Bola Tinubu in 1998 marked a pivotal moment in my life,” said Egbetokun. “Within 24 hours of our encounter, my story changed significantly. That experience is a testimony I will save for another day.”

Egbetokun, who expressed deep gratitude for the honor, emphasized that his career trajectory is a testament to divine grace. He highlighted that the newly unveiled book would serve as both a reference material and a source of inspiration for future generations of law enforcement officers.

“The book is not only a reference but also an inspiration for the new generation of law enforcement officers in Nigeria,” he noted.

Representing President Tinubu at the event, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, praised the book as a fitting tribute to Egbetokun’s dedication to justice, peace, and security. Akume lauded the IGP’s integrity and professionalism, acknowledging the significant role he played as Tinubu’s Chief Security Officer during his tenure as Lagos State Governor.

“This book embodies the essence of our nation’s internal security efforts and honors an extraordinary individual,” Akume stated. “Dr. Egbetokun is a paragon of integrity, whose commitment to duty and resolve in the face of challenges have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s policy landscape.”

President Tinubu also commended the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, along with its collaborating institutions, for recognizing and celebrating excellence through the publication of the anthology. He described the work as a valuable contribution to the understanding of internal security management in Nigeria.