….A New Chapter Begins, DIG Alabi, AIG Ogundele, and AIG Olaosebikan Bid Farewell to NPF After 35 Years of Distinguished Police Career

The trio of distinguished officers – DIG Alabi, AIG Ogundele, and AIG Olaosebikan – formally exited the Nigeria Police Force, having reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, marking the end of their illustrious careers.

L-R: Rrtd. DIG Abiodun Alabi, Rrtd. AIG Ayodeji Ogundele and Rrtd. AIG Olanrewaju Olaosebikan at the pull-out ceremony, Ikeja, Lagos.

 

In an emotional farewell ceremony at the Police College, Ikeja, Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, bid a heartfelt goodbye to his friend, course mate, and colleague, DIG Abiodun Alabi. The IGP described DIG Alabi as a trusted friend, exceptional officer, and shining example of integrity, professionalism, and passion for policing.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun delivering his speech at the Pulling-Out Parade Ceremony, at Ikeja Lagos

 

With mixed emotions, IGP Egbetokun congratulated DIG Alabi on his remarkable 35-year career, highlighting his impressive rise to the prestigious rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police. “This achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and resilience,” said the IGP.

The IGP reflected on their time together at the police academy, praising DIG Alabi’s outstanding service to the nation. “I’m honored to have shared our greatest days together, and I can confidently attest to his unwavering commitment to policing”

IGP speaking further, “we gather to celebrate the remarkable career of DIG Alabi, an exemplary officer who has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and integrity throughout his service. His outstanding performance in every assignment, particularly as the DIG FCID and member of the Force management team, has been truly inspiring.

DIG Alabi’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive accomplishments; it is rooted in the impeccable conscience with which he has served. His commitment to honourable service, integrity, and dedication has earned him the utmost respect and admiration from his peers and those he has served.

L-R: Rrtd. DIG Abiodun Alabi, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Rrtd. AIG Ayodeji Ogundele and Rrtd. AIG Olanrewaju Olaosebikan at the pull-out ceremony, Ikeja, Lagos

 

As he retires, DIG Alabi carries with him the true wealth of a life well-lived: the satisfaction of a job exceptionally well done and the comforting assurance that his selfless service will forever be remembered. I pray that his retirement is filled with peace, joy, and countless blessings, and that his years in retirement surpass his years in service.

Though he may be retiring, DIG Alabi’s wealth of experience and expertise will continue to be a vital resource for our institution. I urge him to stay in touch and share his invaluable insights with the next generation of officers.”

IGP added, “AIG Ogundele Joshua’s remarkable tenure has left an indelible mark on the police force, thanks to his visionary leadership as the pioneering head of the CID Annex Alagbon. His transformative approach has inspired a new generation of police officers.

“Meanwhile, AIG Olarewaju Steven has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, delivering outstanding results in every assignment he undertook during his time at the Force Headquarters.”

Reacting, DIG Alabi expressed his heartfelt gratitude and sense of fulfillment as he bid farewell to the Nigeria Police Force, an institution he had served for 34 years. He reflected on his career, acknowledging the privilege of influencing countless young officers, mentoring, guiding, and inspiring them to reach greatness.

As he looked back on his journey, DIG Alabi recalled the wise words of John Maxwell, “Leadership is not about titles, positions, or brochures. It’s about one life influencing another.” He recognized that his legacy would live on, shaping the future of the Nigerian Police Force and inspiring a new generation of leaders. With humility, DIG Alabi acknowledged his imperfections, apologizing for any mistakes or uncertain decisions that may have affected others. He sought forgiveness and understanding, hoping that those he may have offended could find it in their hearts to forgive.

Rtrd. DIG Abiodun Alabi

DIG Alabi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to senior police officers, particularly IGP Egbetokun, for his exceptional leadership. Reflecting on the occasion, DIG Alabi noted, “As I look back on our diverse and fascinating experiences, I’m reminded of the insightful words of John Maxwell, which highlight the true essence of leadership .”

L-R: Rrtd. DIG Abiodun Alabi, Rrtd. AIG Ayodeji Ogundele, Rrtd. AIG Olanrewaju Olaosebikan and AIG Adegoke Fayoade at the pull-out ceremony, Ikeja, Lagos.

 

As DIG Alabi bid farewell to the Nigeria Police Force, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the institution for the privilege of serving and making a lasting impact. He warmly thanked his family, colleagues, and the entire police community for their unconditional love, encouragement, and support throughout his career. Additionally, DIG Alabi acknowledged the constructive feedback, cooperation, and critiques he received from colleagues, both past and present, which greatly contributed to his growth and success.

L-R: Rrtd. DIG Abiodun Alabi, Rrtd. AIG Ayodeji Ogundele and Rrtd. AIG Olanrewaju Olaosebikan parading

 

Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Johnson Babatunde Kokumo, Director General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message congratulating the retiring officers and their spouses. He expressed his gratitude to the Inspector General of Police for gracing the occasion, noting that he didn’t have the same privilege during his own pull-out ceremony after 35 years of meritorious service.

Kokumo reflected on the importance of being peacemakers, citing the biblical injunction that “blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall inherit the kingdom of God.” He emphasized that policemen must work hard, be professional, and diligent to achieve this noble goal. The retiring officers, he noted, exemplified these qualities throughout their careers.

Rtrd. DIG Johnson Babatunde Kokumo with Rtrd AIG Hakeem Odumosu at the Pulling- Out parade ceremony ikeja, Lagos

 

Offering words of advice, Kokumo urged the retiring officers to continue serving as good ambassadors of the Nigerian Police Force, even in retirement. He also reminded serving officers to accord their due respect to retired colleagues, recognizing that retirement is inevitable for all.

Concluding his message, Kokumo offered a heartfelt prayer, wishing the retiring officers a fulfilling retirement filled with blessings, improved lives, and prosperity for them and their families. “I congratulate all of you,” he stated.

In a separate interview with one the Senior officers, CP Ronke Okunade, CP General Investigations FCID, Alagbon Ikoyi, Lagos, shared her admiration for DIG Abiodun Alabi and AIG Ayodeji Ogundele, describing them as fantastic leaders. She fondly recalled working with AIG Ogundele, praising his kindness, accessibility, and dedication.

CP Ronke Okunade (CP General investigations FCID) Alagbon Ikoyi Lagos

 

CP Ronke Okunade reflected on AIG Ogundele’s remarkable career trajectory, from serving as DCP General Investigations to his promotion as Commissioner of Police, and eventually returning to Alagbon as AIG FCID. She cherished the memory of his homecoming to Alagbon, which was met with widespread excitement and jubilation, marking a joyous reunion with his team.

CP Okunade described AIG Ogundele as a compassionate and approachable leader, always willing to lend a helping hand and stand by his principles. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work under his guidance and highlighted the deep admiration and respect he has earned from his colleagues.

As AIG Ogundele marks the end of his 35-year meritorious service, CP Okunade noted that, unlike some officers who prefer a quiet retirement, he is being celebrated by his peers, and his officers a testament to his exceptional leadership. She concluded by offering a heartfelt prayer for him, saying: ‘May Allah bless him and his family with guidance, protection, and prosperity. May all his dreams and desires be fulfilled, and may he enjoy good health and happiness’.”

Rtrd. AIG Joshua Ayodeji Ogundele

Marking the culmination of an illustrious 35-year career, his retirement stands as a shining tribute to his outstanding leadership and dedication to service.

HRM Eze Dr. C.C. Nwokedi, the Okpoko1 Eze Ndigbo, Ijegun/Ijeododo Kingdom, Chairman Council of Ndieze Ndi- Igbo, Lagos state, shared his thoughts on the two retiring Senior Officers, describing them as close friends. He reflected on his past interactions with them, saying, “I’ve known DIG Abiodun Alabi since his days as DCP, and I’ve always found him to be a kind-hearted individual.

HRM Eze Dr. C.C. Nwokedi, the Okpoko1 Eze Ndigbo, Ijegun/Ijeododo Kingdom, Chairman Council of Ndieze Ndi- Igbo, Lagos state

 

Similarly, I’ve had the pleasure of knowing AIG Ayodeji Ogundele during his tenure as CSP and DPO in Nnewi. He’s always been gracious enough to attend my events, including the Iriji New Yam Festival, where he and his wife spent over eight hours with me just three months ago. ” I decided to postpone my trip to the East to attend the pull-out parade ceremony. As evident from today’s event, the retiring Senior Officers are highly respected for their exemplary service to the nation through the Police Force.

Although not all officers are exemplary, I’ve had the pleasure of befriending the diligent and responsible ones during my 30-year tenure as a Police Contractor and former President of Ladipo market. In fact, I’ve brought gifts to show appreciation for some of the outstanding officers”. He offered heartfelt advice to the two retiring officers, urging them to continue their excellent work and uphold their integrity. He expressed gratitude to God for sparing their lives, acknowledging the sacrifices made by many in the force.

Addressing Nigerians, he encouraged positivity and faith, emphasizing that condemning the country won’t spark change. Instead, he advocated for collective prayer and optimism, trusting that God will continue to guide and sustain Nigeria towards a brighter future.

 

Commissioner of Police Lagos State, CP Ishola Olarenwaju and Deputy Commissioner of Police (SWAT) DCP Kayode Ayilara at the Polling-Out parade ceremony

Middle- HRM Oba Oniru of iru, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal

 

 

After the Pull-out Parade ceremony, a grand reception and birthday party unfolded in honor of retiring Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi. This momentous occasion celebrated not only his 35 years of dedicated service to Nigeria as a police officer but also his 60th birthday.

The event also marked the unveiling of “Against All Odds,” a captivating book chronicling DIG Alabi’s remarkable journey within the Nigeria Police Force. This compendium offers a unique glimpse into the life and career of an exceptional officer.

The numerous tributes and accolades showered on DIG Alabi by an impressive array of individuals, senior police officers serving and retired, old school mates, Top government officials, community leaders, and family members, all united in their admiration for his transformative contributions to policing.

These widespread commendations demonstrate that DIG Alabi is not only an outstanding professional but also a true gentleman . His dedication to creating positive change has left an indelible mark on the policing landscape, inspiring a new generation of law enforcement professionals.