By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, has once again brought pride to the state and the Command, as he emerged one of the distinguished awardees at the 2nd Annual IGP’s Award and Commendation Ceremony, held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja.
The prestigious national event, which drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including representatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of the National Assembly, heads of security and intelligence agencies, as well as senior police officers, was convened by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to honour outstanding personnel of the Nigeria Police Force who have shown exceptional service, integrity, bravery, commitment, and excellence in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking at the event, IGP Egbetokun, emphasized on the significance of the ceremony, which he described not just as a recognition of individual merit, but as a renewal of collective purpose and institutional rebirth.
While congratulating the awardees, he affirmed that the awards were not handed out lightly or based on routine criteria, but were the outcome of a painstaking and merit-driven selection process that involved nominations from across the country, stressing that the final choices were made solely on the basis of integrity, impact, and ethical excellence.
According to him, “The officers honoured this evening did not apply for recognition. They earned it — through uncommon courage, ethical conduct, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication.”
He described the awardees as as officers who rose above the call of duty and quiet heroes whose daily sacrifices make life safer for ordinary Nigerians, further challenged all officers to take inspiration from their colleagues’ achievements, emphasizing that excellence must become the norm rather than the exception.
While the award night was celebratory, the IGP, who also paid tribute to officers who died in line of duty, did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges facing modern policing, including terrorism, cybercrime, kidnapping, and organized crime. He, however, emphasized the need for innovation, training, and community trust, while urging the officers to always see their assignment as a call for national service.
Reacting to the award in an exclusive interview with this reporter, SP Ikenga expressed deep gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for instituting such a morale-boosting reward system that is driven by merit and exceptional performance. While viewing the recognition as an inspiration to do more, he also lauded the leadership and personnel of the Anambra State Police Command, describing their cooperation as a backbone of his achievements.
“This award is a recognition of teamwork. I deeply appreciate the Inspector-General of Police for his vision in instituting this platform of merit and motivation. I also thank my Boss here in Anambra, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, and all my colleagues for their support along this journey,” he said.
SP Ikenga also extended heartfelt appreciation to Anambra journalists, describing them as vital partners in the effort to promote transparency and effective policing in the state.
“I must sincerely thank the media in Anambra. They have shown remarkable professionalism and have helped amplify our messages of safety, alertness, and community engagement. Together, we’ve created a communication ecosystem that builds public trust and enhances crime prevention,” he noted.
While reiterating his perception of the award as a call to higher responsibility, the Anambra State Police image maker promised “to continue serving with integrity, to be the voice of the Command with clarity, and to sustain public trust through responsible engagement.”
This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that PPRO Ikenga has, over the years, stood out for his media tact, crisis management skills, and progressive engagement with the public. His recognition came as no surprise to many observers and media practitioners, who have over the years closely followed his professional trajectory and unmatched contributions to proactive policing communication within Anambra State and beyond.
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