As part of ongoing efforts by IGP Tunji Disu to reposition policing through transparency and public engagement, the Nigeria Police Force has announced the 2026 National Police Day celebrations with a focus on community partnership and trust-building.
The announcement followed a formal press briefing held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed that the week-long activities would commence on Monday, March 30, 2026, and culminate in a grand finale on April 7 at the Eagle Square, Abuja.
Placid said the theme for this year’s celebration, “Community Partnership: Building Trust,” underscores the Force’s renewed commitment to people-centered policing and inclusive security governance.
“This year’s theme reflects our strategic resolve to strengthen collaboration with the public, enhance transparency in our operations, and build sustainable trust as the foundation for effective policing,” he said.
He noted that the National Police Day celebration is designed not only to showcase the operational capabilities of the Force but also to deepen engagement with citizens across the country.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to fostering a policing system that is anchored on mutual respect, accountability, and active community participation. These celebrations provide a platform to connect more closely with the people we serve,” Placid stated.
According to him, activities lined up for the celebration will take place simultaneously across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, ensuring nationwide participation.
“We have carefully designed a range of impactful programmes that will resonate with communities, promote public safety awareness, and reinforce the bond between the Police and citizens,” he added.
Highlighting the schedule of events, the Force PRO disclosed that the celebrations would begin with nationwide environmental sanitation exercises and free medical outreach programmes targeted at vulnerable groups.
“On the first day, officers will embark on environmental sanitation exercises and provide free medical services to members of the public, particularly the vulnerable, as part of our social responsibility initiatives,” he said.
He further explained that the second day would feature a national walkathon across state capitals to promote unity and encourage stronger police-community relations.
“The walkathon is aimed at bringing officers and citizens together in a relaxed atmosphere, fostering unity and strengthening trust,” Placid noted.
The third day, he said, would be dedicated to public sensitization campaigns focusing on critical issues such as electoral violence and road safety.
“We recognize the importance of public enlightenment in preventing crime. Our sensitization campaigns will address the dangers of electoral violence and the need for responsible driving to save lives,” he emphasized.
Placid also revealed that the fourth day would be set aside to honour fallen heroes of the Force, with the presentation of cheques to their families at both the Force Headquarters and state commands.
“We will honour the sacrifices of our fallen officers by supporting their families. This is a solemn reminder of the price paid in the line of duty and our obligation to stand by those they left behind,” he said.
The celebrations will culminate in a grand ceremonial parade at the Eagle Square, Abuja, featuring tactical displays by specialized units of the Force, including the Police Mobile Force, K-9, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU).
“The grand finale will showcase the operational readiness and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force, with tactical demonstrations by our specialized units,” Placid disclosed.
He added that a high-powered organizing committee has been constituted to ensure the seamless execution of the event, chaired by AIG Akoh Benedict Gabriel, with the Force PRO serving as secretary.
“The committee comprises senior officers drawn from key operational departments, including the FCID, PMF, EOD-CBRN, and Medical Services, to ensure a comprehensive and successful celebration,” he said.
Reiterating the Force’s commitment to reform and improved service delivery, Placid called on stakeholders to actively participate in the activities.
“We invite community leaders, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to join us in these activities as we work collectively towards building a safer and more secure Nigeria,” he urged.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to people-centered policing, anchored on trust, transparency, and mutual respect,” he concluded.
