Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun on Saturday led a Guard of Honour in Abuja to bid farewell to former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, describing him as “one of the finest officers” to have served the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The ceremony, held at the NPF Hangar of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, was a solemn last salute to the 18th indigenous Inspector-General, appointed in April 2015. Egbetokun said the parade was “not merely ceremonial” but the Force’s final guard mounted in Arase’s honour, celebrating a lifetime of public service marked by professionalism, discipline and respect for the rule of law.
“His life teaches us that every career and tenure will end, but the impact of true service will endure across generations,” the IGP said, noting Arase’s unprecedented record as Principal Staff Officer to three consecutive Inspectors-General—a benchmark yet to be matched.
Egbetokun praised Arase’s tenure for policy and institutional reforms that stressed character and compassion alongside operational strength. He added that Arase’s commitment to policing continued after retirement through his leadership of the Police Service Commission (PSC), where he brought the same candour and vision to oversight of the Force.
Offering condolences to Arase’s family, the PSC, and the Nigerian public, Egbetokun said the late police chief would be remembered for a legacy of distinguished service to the NPF and the nation.
Arase, a career officer who rose through the ranks to the top job in 2015, is widely credited with advancing professionalism within the Force and championing reforms aimed at improving discipline and adherence to the rule of law.
