The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, has commended the Nigerian Formed Police Unit (NFPU) deployed under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), describing their service as a source of pride and a shining example of the professionalism embedded in the Nigeria Police Force.
The commendation follows the recent redeployment of fifteen Nigerian police officers serving in Somalia from October 16, 2023, to June 14, 2025, to strategic administrative and command roles within the Police and Mission Headquarters of AUSSOM, located in Mogadishu. This redeployment came as part of a broader internal restructuring aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness amid a crucial phase of security realignment and strategic transition within the mission environment.
Despite their primary training as members of the Formed Police Unit, the Nigerian contingent distinguished themselves by effortlessly adapting to the role of Individual Police Officers (IPOs), with minimal need for additional training or orientation. Their ability to transition seamlessly into new responsibilities was recognized by the leadership of AUSSOM, who noted that their intelligence, discipline, and rapid understanding of mission protocols played a crucial role in maintaining order and operational stability at the mission’s headquarters.
In an official letter dated June 12, 2025, addressed to the Inspector-General, the AUSSOM Police Commissioner acknowledged the Nigerian officers’ steadfast professionalism and their significant contributions to continuity and efficiency at the command level. The officers were applauded for upholding high standards in international policing and representing Nigeria with dignity on foreign soil.
Among those reassigned to their new posts are CSP Shehu Gani Ahmed, SP Abraham Akhojie, SP Olivia Ugochukwu, SP Aliyu Makwa, DSP Jack Prince, DSP Odey Kingsley Lukpata, Inspector Nwite Sunday, and Sergeant Ayeni Richard, alongside several others whose dedication to duty has earned international recognition.
Responding to the letter of commendation, IGP Egbetokun expressed immense pride in the officers, noting that their stellar performance underscores the values of discipline, service excellence, and global responsibility that the Nigeria Police Force strives to uphold. He urged the officers to maintain the high standards that have earned them the respect of their peers and superiors within the multinational mission.
The IGP also reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s continued commitment to international peacekeeping efforts, emphasizing the country’s longstanding support for global initiatives aimed at fostering peace, security, and humanitarian stability. He noted that Nigeria’s participation in such missions not only strengthens international cooperation but also enhances the operational capacity of Nigerian officers through global exposure and collaboration.
This recognition by AUSSOM leadership further cements Nigeria’s reputation as a dependable contributor to international peace operations and highlights the competence and resilience of Nigerian law enforcement personnel deployed in complex and challenging environments.
