Heroes Abroad! IGP Applauds Gallant Nigerian Police Officers For Outstanding Peacekeeping In Somalia

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has commended members of the Nigeria Formed Police Unit (NFPU) for their exemplary conduct, professionalism, and unwavering dedication while serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The officers, who were deployed between October 16, 2023, and June 14, 2025, have now taken on new assignments, handling administrative responsibilities and NFPU-12 Command Element roles at the AUSSOM Police/Mission Headquarters (PHQ/MHQ) in Mogadishu, Somalia.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP praised the officers for their remarkable adaptability. Though initially trained for Formed Police Unit operations, they seamlessly transitioned into roles as Individual Police Officers (IPOs), despite receiving minimal induction training.

The statement read:
“Although their primary training was in FPU duties, these officers quickly adapted to IPO responsibilities. Their intelligence, discipline, and commitment allowed them to master complex administrative and operational roles, making significant contributions to the smooth running of AUSSOM Police operations during a critical phase of security restructuring and strategic change.”

This commendation was echoed in a letter dated June 12, 2025, from the AUSSOM Police Commissioner to the IGP, highlighting the officers’ exceptional performance.

Fifteen officers were redeployed to these new roles, including CSP Shehu Gani Ahmed, SP Abraham Akhojie, SP Olivia Ugochukwu, SP Aliyu Makwa, DSP Jack Prince, DSP Odey Kingsley Lukpata, IP Nwite Sunday, and Sgt Ayeni Richard, among others. Their efforts ensured operational continuity and improved efficiency at the mission headquarters, earning praise from AUSSOM leadership and international stakeholders.

The IGP expressed deep pride in the officers, describing them as shining examples of the Nigeria Police Force. He urged them to continue embodying the values of discipline, professionalism, and excellence in service, while reaffirming the Force’s strong commitment to international peacekeeping and the promotion of global peace and cooperation.