By Aminu Garko
Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Usaini Gumel, has marked his 30 years of service in the Nigeria Police Force with a reflective anniversary lecture, highlighting a career defined by integrity, faith, and commitment to national service.
The event, attended by dignitaries, family members and colleagues, served as both a celebration of milestones and a platform to inspire younger generations on the values of discipline and selfless service.
Delivering his address, Gumel expressed deep gratitude to Allah, the Nigeria Police Force, and those who supported his journey since his enlistment three decades ago.
He recalled that although he could not foresee the future at the time he joined the force, he was guided by a strong personal conviction to serve with honour and unwavering dedication.
According to him, education played a vital role in shaping his outlook, citing his academic journey through institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University and Federal University of Technology Minna as foundational to his leadership development.
The DIG traced his professional rise from cadet training at the Nigeria Police Academy to occupying key operational and strategic roles across several states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kwara, Sokoto and Kano.
He noted that these postings exposed him to the complexities of policing in a diverse society and strengthened his resolve to adopt intelligence-led and community-oriented approaches to security challenges.
Reflecting on his tenure as Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Gumel recounted efforts to dismantle armed robbery networks and restore public confidence through collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders.
In Kano State, he described one of the most fulfilling achievements of his career as the rehabilitation of over 700 youths previously involved in criminal activities, transforming them into productive members of society. “Saving a life is greater than arresting one,” he emphasised.
Gumel also highlighted his role in ensuring a peaceful process during the 2023 Kano Governorship elections, noting that proactive planning, stakeholder engagement and professionalism were critical in managing tensions.
He added that similar discipline and restraint were applied in navigating sensitive developments surrounding the Kano Emirate in 2024, stressing that sustainable peace requires preparation, patience and prayer.
On the international stage, the DIG spoke about his contributions to global and regional peacekeeping, including his service with the United Nations Mission in Liberia in 2011.
He further detailed his work within the Economic Community of West African States, where he participated in mission planning and later led police components in peace support operations, contributing to democratic stability in countries such as Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia.
He also recalled receiving international recognition from the Metropolitan Police Service during a commendation ceremony linked to the New Scotland Yard, describing it as a testament to the growing credibility of the Nigeria Police Force on the global stage.
The DIG reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to community policing, citing his leadership roles in training, intelligence and community engagement within the force.
He noted that being recognised as a community policing advocate was humbling but added that rebuilding public trust remains the most rewarding achievement of his career.
Speaking emotionally about his family, Gumel described them as the backbone of his success, acknowledging the sacrifices they made through frequent postings, security challenges and international assignments.
He said the stability of his home enabled him to remain steadfast in service, dedicating the anniversary to his wife, children and extended family.
He concluded by sharing lessons from his 30-year journey, urging young Nigerians to uphold integrity, pursue education and remain committed to service beyond personal ambition. The event also featured goodwill messages from prominent personalities, including Umar Namadi and Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as royal blessings from Ahmed Muhammad Sani II.
Gumel ended his address with prayers for national unity and peace, stating that the anniversary celebrates not just years of service, but resilience, purpose and lasting impact.
