The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, on Friday inaugurated 59 armoured Toyota Hilux operational vehicles, warning against their diversion for private errands or misuse.
Speaking at the event in Abuja, Egbetokun stressed the need for accountability among commanders and tactical units who would take custody of the vehicles.
*“To the commanders and tactical units who will take custody of these Hiluxes: accountability will be total and the vehicles must never sit idle while Nigerians face danger.
“They must never be diverted for private errands or misused in ways that diminish the integrity of the Force. They are operational assets, and will be monitored as such,”* he said.
He explained that the commissioning of the vehicles reflected the determination of the Nigeria Police Force to outpace criminals, respond strongly to threats, and assure citizens that the Force remained prepared.
*“Each of the Hilux is purpose-built for high-risk operations.
“Armoured against hostile fire, equipped for mobility across diverse terrains, and designed for durability, providing tactical units with the protection and speed they need to dominate the field.
“They are not ceremonial assets, they are operational reinforcements for missions that test the very resilience of our officers,”* he said.
Egbetokun emphasised that equipment alone would not guarantee success, noting that discipline, judgement and courage of officers in using them would determine their effectiveness.
“The vehicles will provide the shield, but our officers must provide the integrity, otherwise, the machines will be powerless,” he said.
He added that the inauguration formed part of broader reforms within the Police Force aimed at strengthening operations, enhancing intelligence gathering, improving training and enforcing accountability at all levels.
(NAN)