Dipo Kehinde/
In the intricate and demanding world of law enforcement, few officers rise to the top with an unwavering sense of duty, relentless pursuit of justice, and the tactical acumen required to combat crime in its many forms. One of such officers is Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, whose recent promotion and posting as AIG in charge of Zone 2 stands as a testament to his exceptional service in the Nigeria Police Force.
Early Days and Professional Background
Born into a modest family with strong moral foundations in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, Adegoke Fayoade’s passion for law and order was ignited early in life. His pursuit of a law enforcement career began when he enrolled in the Nigeria Police Academy, on May 18, 1992, where his discipline and intellectual prowess quickly marked him as a standout cadet. After his graduation, Fayoade hit the ground running, deploying his knowledge and skills in different capacities, initially as a police officer in various divisions and later climbing the ranks due to his unique ability to handle high-pressure situations.
AIG Fayoade holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education/History from Lagos State University, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Lagos, and an LLB from the National Open University of Nigeria.
He had attended courses at home and abroad, some of which include: Criminal Justice Administration at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, USA; Adopting Community Policing Ethos in Training Academy, USIP, Washington DC, USA; Leadership and Senior Management Course, Police Staff College, Jos; Leveraging International Police Cooperation Organisations for Countering Violent Extremism, Abu-Dhabi; and the Senior Executive Course 45 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos.
AIG Fayoade was a two-time winner of Best Divisional Police Officer in Africa, awarded in The Hague, Netherlands, and Nairobi, Kenya, in 2007 and 2013, while he was DPO in Ilupeju and Victoria Island, respectively.
He was also a recipient of the Lagos State Government Honour Award for Excellence in 2013 while he was DPO Victoria Island; a two-time winner of the Meritorious Award on Crime Fighting from the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, and a Youth Motivation Award from the National Association of Nigerian Students.
As a younger officer, he served in Taraba, Akwa-Ibom, and Abia States. He had also served as the Commandant, Police Training College, Oyin-Akoko, Ondo State; Area Commander, Ota Area Command, Ogun State, where he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Oto Awori Community; DCP Maritime Command, Lagos; DCP Administration at Zone 2 Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos; and DCP State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Lagos.
After his promotion to the rank of Commissioner of Police in September 2022, he was deployed as CP Armament, Force Headquarters, Abuja, from where he proceeded to the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Jos, earning him Member of the National Institute (mni) in December 2023.
Crime-Fighting Prowess
What sets AIG Fayoade apart is his unparalleled expertise in fighting organized crime, particularly his contributions in the areas of anti-robbery, anti-kidnapping, and curbing the menace of violent crimes across several Nigerian states. His strategic approach to law enforcement has not only led to high-profile arrests but has also strengthened trust between the police and communities under his jurisdiction.
Fayoade became the Commissioner of Police in Lagos on 14th of December 2023 and his work in the state proved instrumental in dismantling several notorious criminal networks. His no-nonsense approach and well-coordinated sting operations yielded results that reverberated across state lines, with one particularly notable success being the smashing of a gang responsible for a string of armed robberies and kidnappings in Lagos and the Southwest region.
AIG Fayoade’s ability to crack complex criminal cases has earned him the respect of his peers, and more importantly, the gratitude of the communities he serves.
A Leader by Example
Throughout his career, AIG Fayoade has demonstrated that crime-fighting is as much about strategy as it is about leadership. His rise through the ranks—holding positions such as Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Area Commander, and later Commissioner of Police—was accompanied by a strong focus on reforming internal policing standards, advocating for police welfare, and emphasizing accountability within the Force. His leadership style, which blends empathy with firmness, has inspired countless junior officers who see him as a mentor and role model.
During the worker’s nationwide protest march in February, Fayoade was out distributing water and biscuits to protesters in Lagos. It was the first time ever that a protest march would be held with such empathy and collaboration between the police and the people in Nigeria.
AIG Fayoade’s tenure as the Commissioner of Police in Lagos was especially noteworthy. His proactive crime prevention measures drastically reduced crime rates, and his commitment to swift justice improved the public perception of the Nigeria Police Force during a period when such confidence was waning. His efforts in community policing also helped bridge the gap between the police and local populations, fostering a collaborative environment in which both officers and civilians worked together to ensure safety.
The Culmination of Years of Service
AIG Adegoke Fayoade’s promotion to Assistant Inspector General of Police is not merely a reward for years of service, but a recognition of his exceptional leadership and crime-fighting record. His ability to think several steps ahead of criminals and his dedication to making Nigeria safer for all its citizens are qualities that have earned him this well-deserved honor. His promotion comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with heightened insecurity, and he is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear on the challenges ahead, particularly in the areas of counter-terrorism and border security.
The Future of Law Enforcement Under Fayoade’s Command
As AIG Fayoade assumes his new role, there is no doubt that his tenure will continue to embody professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation. With an eye on reforming the police force to meet 21st-century security demands, he is poised to implement policies that will not only enhance operational effectiveness but also promote the well-being of police officers and restore public trust in law enforcement.
Under his watch, the Zone 2 Command of the Nigeria Police Force is likely to witness a renewed focus on modern crime-fighting techniques, including the integration of technology in tracking and apprehending criminals. His vision includes increased collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to tackle cross-border crimes and a continued emphasis on community-based policing as a sustainable model for lasting peace and security.
AIG Fayoade’s journey from a young cadet to the elite ranks of the Nigeria Police Force serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through determination, hard work, and a clear commitment to justice.