ACP Abayomi Faniyi, Commander of Area G Command Ogba, has retired after a 35-year career in the Nigeria Police Force, receiving encomium from dignitaries, including traditional rulers, community leaders, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), and others.
The ceremony, which was held last week at the Excellence Hotel, Ogba area of Lagos, witnessed a beehive of colourful activities.
Faniyi is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Port Harcourt. He went to the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC), located in Wudil, Kano State, and was enlisted into the Police Force in 1990 as a Police Cadet.
He served for 35 meritorious years in various capacities and rose to the height of his career.
Reflecting on his time in service, in his farewell remarks, Faniyi reflected on the challenges he faced throughout his 35-year career in the service, acknowledging the impact of his demanding job on his personal and family life but expressing gratitude for ending his service on a note of joy and accomplishment.
Faniyi said: “During the course of my service, I noticed that the job requires me to go long distances. For instance, from Lagos to Kano, I carried my bag and moved to the Police Academy in Kano.
“I also participated in training in Jos. My attachment was first at Tafawa Balewa Housing Estate in Bauchi. I was also posted to Rivers State. It was my first posting. I met those who were benefactors, and they took care of me.
“During my service period, it has been the Lord’s doing. From Lokoja, I moved to Imo State in 2021. I was also in Igbeti. This is enough for me to stand before Almighty God. I know what I’ve gone through in terms of dangerous assignments.
Faniyi, who is the Eletu Akintan of Ogbaland, also thanked colleagues and stakeholders for their support, seeking similar cooperation for his successor.
“My family’s prayers boosted my morale. All in all, what became important to me is the prayer. I can’t mention all the names.
“I deeply appreciate the unwavering support and commitment shown by my colleagues, community leaders, and citizens.
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“I appreciate Area G personnel, Lagos Police Command, and DPOs in the various areas for their support. My successor will take over and resume from next week. Please give her all the necessary support.”
The chairman of the Day, Engr. Oladele Awobusuy,i in his remarks, eulogised ACP Faniyi, describing him as a dedicated and thoroughbred professional.
He further commended Faniyi’s remarkable service and contributions to security in the Ogba/Ikeja environs and Lagos as a whole.
Awobusuyi said, “I want to thank you all for honoring this occasion in honor of ACP Faniyi, who has performed tremendously well.
“I thank God for the life of the celebrant. Putting 35 years in an establishment is not a mere feat. All glory to Almighty God for preserving his life. You’re still young and agile. We know great things will still come.”
He, therefore, urged junior officers in the Nigerian Police to emulate ACP Faniyi to attain such a glowing and well-decorated career.
The PCRC Area G Command Ogba at the event also eulogised ACP Faniyi, noting that his dedication and service to the Nigerian Police Force, particularly as Commander of Area G Command Ogba, were remarkable.
Led by the PCRC State Chairman Apostle Kehinde Showemimo, PCRC State DGS and Area G Command Chairman Jude Ndoh (Esq.), State Executives, Area G Command Executives, ACP Faniyi was honored with an Exemplary Leadership Award and gift, recognising his outstanding contributions.