In a heartfelt ceremony held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ibara Housing Estate, Abeokuta, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, recognized the exceptional contributions of 39 officers, both serving and retired, for their dedicated service to the nation. The event took place on Monday and featured the presentation of commendation awards to five retired officers and 34 currently serving members of the police force.

Commissioner Ojajuni emphasized the demanding nature of police work, stating that the officers deserved commendation for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across Nigeria. He noted that some of the honorees had previously received accolades from the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, underscoring their distinguished service.

Among the retired officers honored was DST Anifat Bello, a well-known traffic officer in Abeokuta who recently retired in August and was also recognized by the IGP. Other notable retirees included CSP Salami Murphy, the former Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Commander, alongside DSPs Olaifa Emmanuel, Ayanlola Olatunji, and Saanu Johnson.

The serving officers who received commendations included prominent figures such as SP Shittu Bamidele, the Officer in Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, SP Gbenga Ademola, SP Balogun Sherrif, ASP Olupona Helen, and ASP Jimoh Lasisi, among others. Their recognition is part of an initiative aligned with the IGP’s efforts to honor officers who have completed distinguished service.

During the ceremony, Ojajuni remarked on the challenges faced by police officers, stating, "Spending 35 years in the police was no easy task, given the pressure and risks associated with the profession." He expressed gratitude towards the retired officers, highlighting their significant contributions and the importance of honoring their service.

Ojajuni further urged current officers to strive for excellence, stating, "This is a lesson to officers that are still in the service, that whatever you do, at the end of the day, there will be a scorecard. You will be recognized for doing excellently well or averagely well." He emphasized the importance of setting a positive example for future generations of officers.

Responding on behalf of the retirees, CSP Salami Murphy expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating, "We are retiring today, but I want to assure you that we are not tired. At any point in time that our services to humanity will be required or requested, we are there for the Ogun State Police Command, Nigeria Police and Nigeria at large." This sentiment reflects the enduring commitment of these officers to serve their community even after retirement.