The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning to officers across the country, cautioning them against using the newly commissioned armoured Toyota Hilux vehicles for ceremonial or non-operational purposes.
The IGP gave the directive on Friday at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, during the official commissioning of 59 armoured Toyota Hilux vehicles, specially acquired to enhance the operational capability of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Strictly for High-Risk Operations – IGP
“These 59 armoured Toyota Hilux vehicles, commissioned today in Abuja, are evidence that this Force does not trade in promises — it delivers capacity,” Egbetokun said, emphasizing that the vehicles are designed for combat readiness, not public show.
According to the IGP, each vehicle is armoured for protection, engineered for durability, and equipped for mobility across difficult terrains, making them vital tools in tackling evolving threats to national security.
“They are not ceremonial assets — they are operational reinforcements for missions that test the very resilience of our officers,” he stressed.
Crackdown on Misuse and Idle Deployment
Egbetokun made it clear that total accountability would be required from all commanders and tactical units assigned to the vehicles.
“These vehicles must never sit idle while Nigerians face danger. They must never be diverted for private errands or misused in ways that diminish the integrity of this Force,” he warned.
He further stated that the Police Force will monitor the use of the vehicles, ensuring they are visible on roads, in towns, and in vulnerable communities — delivering faster response times and improved safety outcomes.
“These vehicles add mobility and protection to those reforms, but they are not the end of the journey – they are a reinforcement of it,” said the IGP.
He also confirmed that more units of the armoured Hilux vehicles would be delivered in the coming months, with plans to allocate them to commands across the country.
Upholding the Rule of Law in All Operations
While praising the tactical advantage these vehicles provide, IGP Egbetokun emphasized the need for professionalism and legality in their use.
“Every operation must be lawful, proportionate, and decisive. Tactical advantage must never become an excuse for abuse,” he stated.
“The legitimacy of the Nigeria Police Force rests not in force alone, but in professionalism and respect for the rule of law.”
The IGP concluded with a strong message to criminal groups across the country:
“The Police Force now has stronger tools to match determination with capability. Criminal groups will no longer enjoy the advantage of mobility or surprise. These Hiluxes will carry our officers into contested spaces and return with results.”
