IGP Egbetokun Commissions Historic Lagos Police Band, Says New Unit Will Deepen Force Goodwill
Lagos CP Jimoh: Band to Strengthen Police-Public Bond
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Friday commissioned the Lagos State Police Command Musical Band, describing the initiative as a strategic move aimed at deepening public goodwill and strengthening the institutional image of the Nigeria Police Force.
The historic ceremony, held on January 23, marked the first time since the establishment of the Lagos State Command that it would operate a band of its own, specifically dedicated to ceremonial and official engagements within the state.
Speaking at the event, IGP Egbetokun said the absence of a police band in Lagos over the years represented a structural gap, particularly given the command’s strategic importance within the Nigeria Police Force.
“For the first time since its establishment, the Lagos State Command now possesses a band of its own, purposely to serve ceremonial and official purposes,” the IGP said. “For many years, despite its prominence, the Command relied on the Force Headquarters band—an arrangement that was rational but not ideal. Today, that omission has been corrected.”
He noted that the Nigeria Police Band has consistently projected the Force positively through professional performances across official and social engagements nationwide, helping to reinforce public confidence and enhance ceremonial dignity.
“The work of the police band evokes inspiration and collective pride among officers and members of the public alike. Its music communicates unity, discipline and national purpose, reminding listeners of the ideals the Police Force represents,” Egbetokun said.
The IGP assured that the Force would take deliberate steps to strengthen the newly commissioned Lagos band through modern equipment, sustained funding and operational support to align its activities with contemporary standards.
“This ceremony has drawn renewed attention to the police band as an important institutional asset. That attention will be matched with efforts to modernise operations and sustain excellence,” he added.
Earlier, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Olohundare, described the commissioning as a landmark moment in the history of the Command and the evolution of the Nigeria Police Band.
“It is with great privilege and humility that I welcome the Inspector-General of Police to Lagos State Command for this historic commissioning,” CP Jimoh said. “Officers and men of this Command deeply appreciate the magnanimity of the IGP for approving the establishment of this band and personally performing this commissioning.”
Reflecting on the legacy of the Nigeria Police Band, CP Jimoh traced its roots to its establishment in 1966 at the Police College, Ikeja, noting its long-standing reputation as a standard bearer for regimental parades, entertainment and ceremonial engagements.
According to him, the absence of a band in Lagos State Command had long created an institutional vacuum.
“Establishing a police band in Lagos is not a luxury but a strategic necessity. It will enhance public trust, boost morale and strengthen the professional image of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State,” he said.
Beyond ceremonial duties, the Commissioner highlighted the human and welfare benefits of the band, particularly in a high-pressure environment like Lagos. He said participation in the band would provide officers with creative outlets, stress relief, emotional balance and improved mental well-being, ultimately enhancing productivity.
CP Jimoh also disclosed that, with proper structure, the band could support sanctioned performances, partnerships and internally generated revenue without compromising ethical standards.
“Without being immodest, this band is fully equipped with high-grade, world-acclaimed musical components. It is designed not only to deliver quality musical productions for which the Nigeria Police Band is renowned, but also to serve as a long-lasting asset to the Force,” he said.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba; the Lagos State Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Aare Abisoye Fagade, Director-General and CEO of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR); Dr Ayo Ogunsan; the Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund; and senior officers from the Army and other security agencies.
