The Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Friday, inaugurated the Lagos State Police Command Band in Ikeja, describing the event as a major milestone in the command’s institutional development.

Mr Egbetokun said that for the first time since its establishment, the Lagos State Police Command had a band of its own, ending years of reliance on the Force Headquarters Band.

According to him, the absence of a command band has remained a notable institutional gap despite Lagos State’s strategic importance.

The police boss described the Nigerian Police Band as a source of pride, saying its performances had enhanced ceremonial dignity, strengthened public confidence, and positively projected the image of the police.

He added that beyond music, the band symbolised discipline, unity, and professionalism within the force.

The I-G assured that efforts would be made to modernise the band through the provision of modern musical instruments and other resources, stressing that the initiative forms part of a broader approach to institutional and professional development.

He commended the commissioner of police and the Lagos State command leadership for their commitment and urged other commands across the country to strengthen institutional capacity and professionalism.

The police chief officially launched the Lagos State Police Band for operational and ceremonial use, charging its members to uphold high standards of discipline and professionalism.

In his opening remarks, the CP, Olohundare Jimoh, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the evolution of the Lagos State command and the Nigerian Police Force at large.

He expressed deep gratitude to the I-G for personally attending the ceremony in spite of his extremely tight schedule, noting that his presence underscored the importance of the initiative.

According to the commissioner, the establishment of the police band in Lagos State represents a strategic and institutional advancement aimed at strengthening professionalism, morale, and public trust in the police.

He noted that the Nigerian Police Band traced its origins to its modest establishment at the Police College in 1966.

He said that the band had since grown into a respected unit renowned for excellence in regimental duties, ceremonial engagements, social functions, entertainment, and other official responsibilities.

According to him, the command occupies a uniquely critical position within the Nigerian Police Force, operating in a mega city characterised by rapid urbanisation, intense economic activity, high population density, and complex social dynamics.

He described the command as one of the most scrutinised and operationally demanding formations in the country, tasked with safeguarding vast national and international investments while maintaining public order.

He highlighted notable achievements recorded by the command in recent years, attributing the successes to effective leadership and reforms under the I-G.

The commissioner noted that the absence of a police band in Lagos State had long been a significant institutional gap, given the command’s national importance and frequent ceremonial and public engagements.

“The establishment of the Nigerian Police Band in Lagos State is not only timely but a strategic necessity.

“It will enhance the professional image of the police, boost officers’ morale, and deepen engagement with the public,” he said.

Mr Jimoh further stated that the expansion of the Nigerian Police Band to Lagos State was driven by patriotism, passion, and a commitment to meeting the growing demands of the command.

He expressed confidence that the band would contribute positively to the traditions, discipline, and public perception of the Nigerian Police Force in Lagos State.

(NAN)