The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police Adebola Ayinde Hamzat as the new head of the Zone 16 Police Command, which has its headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Hamzat takes over from AIG Paul Alifa Omata, who retired recently.
According to The PUNCH the appointment was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Emonena Gunn, in Yenagoa.
Gunn highlighted Hamzat’s vast experience and qualifications, noting that he has held various key positions in the Nigerian Police Force and international missions.
“AIG Adebola Ayinde Hamzat, a native of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, joined the Nigeria Police Force as a cadet ASP on May 18, 1992,” the statement said.
“He is a graduate of Sociology from the University of Ilorin and holds a Master’s degree in Conflict Management and Peace Studies from the University of Jos, as well as a PhD in Peace and Development Studies from the University of Ilorin.”
The statement praised Hamzat’s distinguished career, particularly his expertise in intelligence and investigation, which has been recognized both in Nigeria and internationally.
He served in the United Nations Mission in Kosovo and Timor-Leste (East Timor), where he gained considerable experience in international policing.
Prior to his appointment as the 9th Zonal Commander of Zone 16, Hamzat served as the AIG in charge of the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force. He was also the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State and headed the Border Patrol Force.
The police statement called on residents of Bayelsa and Rivers States to support the new AIG as he assumes his duties.
“We urge the people to cooperate fully with AIG Hamzat as he brings his extensive knowledge and proven skills in policing to Zone 16, in line with the Inspector General’s agenda for improved security and law enforcement.”
