Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Department of Finance and Administration, Yahaya Sahabo Abubakar, mni, psc, FCIPA, FIoDN, FIMC, CMC, has formally taken a bow from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) after an eventful career spanning 33 years of service.
In a valedictory message titled “A Final Salute, With Deep Appreciation and Best Wishes”, DIG Abubakar described his journey in the Force as one filled with gratitude, fulfilment, and nostalgia. His retirement takes effect from Monday, September 15, 2025.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude, a deep feeling of self-fulfilment, as well as a sense of nostalgia that I address you all, for the last time, in my official capacity as a Deputy Inspector-General in the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.
The senior officer thanked Allah for the grace to serve and commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode A. Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, and members of the Force Management Team for their support. He also extended appreciation to the Minister of Police Affairs, the Police Service Commission, and his colleagues in Cadet ASP Course 17 of 1992.
DIG Abubakar acknowledged the role of successive Inspectors-General under whom he served, including retired IGPs Suleiman Abba, Solomon Arase, Mohammed Adamu, and Usman Alkali Baba, as well as the late Solomon Arase. He also recalled his service under retired DIG Parry Osayande and retired AIG Austin Iwar, whom he described as key influences in his professional growth.
He further paid tribute to his subordinates, noting their loyalty, resilience, and sacrifices.
“Indeed, you are the true heroes of the Nigeria Police Force! Your commitment, resilience, and sacrifice in the face of daunting challenges are the driving force behind all the successes we have achieved,” he declared.
While reflecting on the future of the Force, the outgoing DIG offered a set of recommendations aimed at strengthening professionalism and operational efficiency. These include:
”Full implementation of the Nigeria Police Act 2020.
”Adoption of community-oriented policing as a sustainable security model.
”Greater investment in technology and modernization of operations.
”Continuous training and retraining of officers.
”Deepening inter-agency cooperation through a “whole-of-society” approach.
”Improved welfare packages covering not only salaries but healthcare, housing, and post-retirement support.
”Maintaining unity of purpose and commitment to professional ethics.
“The welfare of officers on the front lines is paramount. I urge sustained and increased commitment to improving quality of work and residential environments for our personnel,” he noted.
DIG Abubakar expressed confidence in the future of the Nigeria Police Force under its current leadership, assuring that he would continue to be a proud ambassador of the institution.
“I may be retiring from active service, but my spirit will always remain with the Force. I will continue to be a proud Ambassador, a cheerleader and a local champion for the NPF from the sidelines,” he said.
He concluded his message with prayers for the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A Final Salute: DIG Yahaya Sahabo Abubakar Bows Out After 33 Years of Service
