Abuja: Three Arms Zone Cordoned Off For National Police Day Celebrations At Eagle Square

The Grand Parade/Procession of the maiden edition of National Police Day currently ongoing at Eagle Square, Abuja

The inaugural National Police Day celebration is underway at Eagle Square in Abuja on 7 April 2025, with Vice President Kashim Shettima standing in for President Bola Tinubu.

The event caps a week-long series of activities from 2 to 7 April, aimed at honouring the Nigeria Police Force’s contributions to national security and strengthening community ties.

The entire Three Arms Zone has been cordoned off, causing major traffic disruptions. Commuters faced long treks to reach the Federal Secretariat, inconveniencing many travellers in the area.

President Tinubu declared 7 April as National Police Day on 19 April 2024, recognising the Force’s dedication and sacrifices in protecting lives and property. The initiative seeks to boost public trust and collaboration in maintaining law and order. Activities this week included medical outreaches, community engagements, security company exhibitions, and a walkathon with personnel and senior officers.

NPF spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi addressed the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement’s planned nationwide protest on the same day, calling it poorly timed.

In a Sunday statement, he said, “In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of their police institutions, the Nigerian government has taken the bull by the horns by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day.”

“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is, however, questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole,” Adejobi added.

“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organisers to shelve this planned protest, as it is ill-timed and mischievous.”