IGP Egbetokun Inaugurates Lagos State Police Command Band, Sanwo-Olu and Stakeholders Applaud Initiative
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| Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun salutes in observation of the Nigeria National Anthem |
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated the Lagos State Police Command Band in Ikeja, Lagos, describing the development as a major milestone in the institutional growth of the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Command.
The event marked the first time since its establishment that the Lagos State Police Command would have a dedicated band of its own, ending decades of reliance on the Force Headquarters Band for official and ceremonial functions.
Speaking at the inauguration, the IGP said the absence of a command band had remained a significant institutional gap, particularly given Lagos State’s strategic importance as Nigeria’s commercial and economic hub.
Egbetokun described the Nigerian Police Band as a source of pride for the force, noting that its performances enhance ceremonial dignity, strengthen public confidence, and project a positive image of the police to the public. He added that beyond music, the band symbolises discipline, unity, and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.
The police chief further assured that efforts would be made to modernise the band through the provision of modern musical instruments and other resources, explaining that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy aimed at institutional reform and professional development within the police.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the evolution of the command and the Nigeria Police Force at large. He expressed gratitude to the IGP for personally attending the ceremony despite his tight schedule, noting that the gesture underscored the importance attached to the initiative.
According to CP Jimoh, the establishment of the Lagos State Police Command Band represents a strategic institutional advancement designed to strengthen professionalism, boost officers’ morale, and deepen public trust in the police.
He explained that the Nigerian Police Band traces its origins to 1966 when it was established at the Police College and has since evolved into a respected unit known for excellence in regimental duties, ceremonial engagements, social functions, entertainment, and other official responsibilities.
The commissioner also highlighted the unique operational challenges of the Lagos State Command, describing it as one of the most demanding and scrutinised police formations in the country due to rapid urbanisation, intense economic activities, high population density, and complex social dynamics in the state.
He noted that the command plays a critical role in safeguarding national and international investments while maintaining public order in Nigeria’s commercial capital, adding that recent achievements recorded by the command were the result of leadership reforms under the current police administration.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other stakeholders present at the ceremony commended the IGP and the Lagos State Police Command leadership for the initiative, describing it as a timely and strategic move that reflects a renewed commitment to institutional development, discipline, and improved police–community relations.
Observers say the inauguration of the Lagos State Police Command Band represents a broader effort by the Nigeria Police Force to modernise its structures, strengthen tradition, and reinforce public confidence in law enforcement at a time when public trust and institutional efficiency remain critical to national security.