By Christopher Oji
Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has called on police officers across the nation to emulate the exemplary commitment and dedication demonstrated by Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Yetunde Alonge throughout her career.
Egbetekun gave the charge during the official pulling-out ceremony of AIG Alonge upon her retirement from service, yesterday, in Lagos.
Egbetokun, who was represented by Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) Abiodun Alabi, praised the virtues of Alonge, the immediate past Force Secretary.
Alabi said: “We continue to draw from your inspiration, we continue to draw from your wealth of experience that you have shown in the course of your career.”
Egbetekun highlighted Alonge’s significant contributions to the Nigerian Police Force and praised her bravery, commitment, and integrity, noting that her career has been marked by countless acts of humility and compassion, crucial in the challenging domain of policing across the nation.
“Your career has been a remarkable one, marked with countless acts of humility, compassion and propriety. You have faced a lot of challenges in the domain of policing in the entire nation,” Egbetekun added, acknowledging Alonge’s unique position as the only female to have served as the Force Secretary. “The post you deserved because of your dedication to duty, because of your exemplary achievement in the force, has really impacted positively on the force. We are so proud of you.”
In her retirement speech, AIG Alonge expressed a sense of fulfilment as she reflected on her journey in the police.
“As I retire from the Nigerian Police Force, after reaching the mandatory age of 60 years, I am filled with a sense of pride and fulfilment,” she said, describing her career as “an incredible, fulfilling journey dotted with formidable challenges.”
She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated officers committed to upholding the law and protecting Nigerian communities.
Alonge thanked her colleagues, superiors, family and friends for their support throughout her career, and vowed to continue upholding the principles of service, integrity and excellence in her future endeavours.
“As I embark on a new chapter in my life, I do so with a sense of optimism, excitement and readiness for whatever challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” she concluded.
The ceremony was a testament to the respect and admiration Alonge has garnered over her years of service, with many in attendance expressing their well-wishes on her retirement.