The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, has retired from the Nigeria Police Force after a distinguished career spanning several decades, urging officers and men of the Force to uphold professionalism, discipline, ethical leadership and community policing in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
Garba formally retired from active service on July 21, 2026, with a colourful Pulling-Out Parade and Send-Forth Ceremony attended by senior serving and retired police officers, government officials, traditional rulers, heads of sister security agencies, captains of industry, members of the business community, family, friends and other well-wishers.
Speaking at the ceremony, the retired senior police officer described his years in the Nigeria Police Force as fulfilling and rewarding, noting that it had been a rare privilege to serve the nation in different capacities.
He attributed the successes recorded during his career to teamwork, dedication and the collective support of colleagues and stakeholders.
Garba called on officers and men of the Force to remain steadfast in their commitment to discipline, professionalism, respect for the rule of law and the protection of the rights of citizens.
He also urged personnel to embrace community policing, intelligence-led operations and ethical leadership as essential tools for improving public safety and enhancing confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
The retired AIG expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as the administration's commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police Force and improving national security.
He also thanked the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and members of the Force Management Team for the confidence reposed in him and the support extended throughout his career.
Garba further acknowledged the Chairman and members of the Police Service Commission for their commitment to professionalism, accountability and institutional development within the Force.
He equally commended the Governors of Delta and Edo states, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Monday Okpebholo, respectively, for their cooperation and support to Zone 5 Headquarters during his tenure.
According to him, the collaboration between both state governments and the Police contributed significantly to improved security, public safety and effective policing across the two states.
The retired police chief also appreciated the Commissioners of Police, tactical commanders, officers and personnel of the Delta and Edo State Police Commands, as well as officers serving at the Zone 5 Headquarters, for their loyalty, dedication and commitment to duty.
While thanking residents of Edo and Delta states for their cooperation with the Police, Garba appealed to members of the public to sustain their support for security agencies by providing credible and timely information to aid crime prevention and promote safer communities.
He expressed confidence that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to evolve into a more professional, people-oriented and globally respected institution under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, SP Tijani A. Momoh, the command congratulated the retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police on the successful completion of his service, describing his contributions to the Nigeria Police Force and national security as significant and worthy of commendation.
The statement wished Garba a peaceful, healthy and fulfilling retirement.
