The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, has described police work as a demanding profession that requires dedication and resilience. He made these remarks at a Commendation and Awards Ceremony held at the Police Officers' Mess, Ibara Housing Estate, Abeokuta. The event was organised to honour 34 serving officers and five retired personnel for their meritorious service to the country. Ojajuni noted that serving as a police officer for decades was no easy feat.
The ceremony was organised to appreciate officers who had served the country meritoriously and to encourage serving personnel to remain committed to their duties. According to Ojajuni, the Inspector-General of Police had earlier honoured some of the officers in Abuja, while the Ogun Command decided to replicate the gesture locally and recognise those who were unable to attend the Abuja ceremony. This move aimed to boost the morale of serving officers.
The five retired officers honoured were former Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Commander, CSP Salami Murphy; DSP Olaifa Emmanuel; DSP Ayanlola Olatunji; DST Saanu Johnson; and DST Anifa Bello. Among the serving officers recognised were the Officer in Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, SP Shittu Bamidele; SP Gbenga Ademola; SP Balogun Sherrif; ASP Olupona Helen; and ASP Jimoh Lasisi, among others. These officers were commended for their contributions to the police force.
Ojajuni particularly commended CSP Salami, describing him as hardworking, dedicated, and always willing to deliver on assignments. He also praised SP Bamidele for his contribution to the relative calm in the state, describing the Anti-Kidnapping Unit as one of the standout units in the Command. The CP emphasised the importance of recognising the efforts of officers.
The Commissioner said recalling retired officers to celebrate their achievements would not only honour their contributions but also motivate serving personnel to put in greater effort. He stressed that the ceremony was a way to appreciate those who had served the country meritoriously on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police. This gesture aimed to encourage serving officers to work diligently.
Responding on behalf of the retirees, Murphy expressed appreciation to the Command for the recognition. He said although they had retired from active service, they remained willing to contribute to the police and society whenever called upon. Murphy described Ojajuni as a father, mentor, and caregiver, while also appreciating serving officers who worked alongside the retirees during their years in service.
The event showcased the Ogun State Police Command's efforts to appreciate the hard work and dedication of its officers. The Command's initiative to honour its officers and retirees demonstrates its commitment to boosting morale and encouraging excellence in service. The ceremony highlighted the importance of recognising the contributions of police officers to the country's security.
Key points
- Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, describes police work as an arduous profession characterised by anxiety and stress.
- The Ogun State Police Command honours 39 officers, including 34 serving officers and five retired personnel, for their meritorious service.
- The ceremony aims to appreciate officers' contributions and encourage serving personnel to remain committed to their duties.
