Mrs. Olatokunbo Iyiola Edun, the Executive Director of Grace Schools in Gbagada, Lagos, has called on the Federal Government to prioritize the safety and protection of citizens by ensuring the Nigeria Police Force is adequately funded, equipped, and trained. Edun, who holds the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police through the Supernumerary Police (SPY), emphasized that with proper support, the police can perform to globally acceptable standards.
Rising Insecurity and the Need for Government Action
In an interview on December 20, 2025, Edun expressed deep concern over the current state of insecurity in Nigeria. She contrasted today's realities with a safer past, recalling a time when her younger brother could travel by train from Lagos to attend Federal Government College, Maiduguri, and when young Nigerians could freely travel around the North on motorcycles. "That cannot be feasible again in today's Nigeria," she stated, attributing this change to the high level of insecurity.
Edun, who resides in Lagos, shared that even her neighborhood is not spared, with residents hearing strange sounds at night, suspected to be knockouts, which spread fear and tension. She highlighted the worrisome prevalence of armed robbery, kidnapping, and banditry, which creates a pervasive feeling that no one is safe. Her solution is clear: the government must empower the police to function appropriately.
A Lesson from China: Professionalism Through Support
Edun's conviction stems from a recent personal experience in Yiwu, China, one of the world's largest wholesale markets. After a taxi driver vanished with her newly purchased suitcase, she reluctantly filed a police report, skeptical based on her Nigerian experiences. To her astonishment, the Chinese police acted with remarkable efficiency and professionalism.
They used Close-circuit television (CCTV) to track the taxi driver, recovered the suitcase, and provided regular updates, calling her companion every 30 minutes. "This surprised me... we can have such an excellent Police Force in Nigeria," Edun remarked, marveling at their dexterity and dynamism. She concluded that this level of service is directly linked to government support and proper resourcing.
Insights from the Supernumerary Police and Path Forward
Reflecting on her own training at the Police College in Ikeja, Edun praised the program for exposing her to critical security issues. The experience was so positive that she sent nine staff members and enrolled her son for the same training. It also allowed her to see that not all police officers are bad and that many are responsible professionals dedicated to their duties.
However, the training also revealed the myriad challenges officers face, including poor living conditions. Edun, a self-professed fan of the police, distanced herself from those who harass citizens on the roads, linking such behavior to systemic welfare issues.
To transform the force, Edun recommends a multi-pronged approach by the government:
- Better remuneration and welfare: Improving living conditions will reduce bribery, corruption, and the harassment of innocent citizens at checkpoints.
- Adequate training: Investing in local training programs led by brilliant Nigerians can enhance overall effectiveness without huge overseas funding.
- Provision of modern facilities: Equipping the police with better infrastructure will lead to improved service delivery.
She firmly believes that if the Police is well-funded and equipped, the safety of lives and property will be guaranteed for all Nigerians.
