By Odita Sunday
Former Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has asked friends and well-wishers to turn his birthday celebrations into acts of kindness, urging them to put food on the tables of struggling families, support children and assist Nigerians facing hardship.
Egbetokun made the appeal on Friday, September 4, 2026, as he marked his birthday, while also calling for prayers for Nigeria amid persistent security and socio-economic challenges confronting the country.
Rather than elaborate gifts or celebrations, the former police chief urged those wishing to mark the occasion with him to channel the resources they would have spent into helping people in need.
“If you wish to spend money to mark my birthday, please let that money become food on someone’s table, hope in someone’s heart and relief to someone facing difficult circumstances,” he said.
He specifically appealed to his friends, associates and well-wishers to support struggling families, provide food and educational materials for children, assist people requiring medical care and extend a helping hand to widows, orphans, the elderly and other vulnerable members of society.
According to him, even small acts of kindness could provide hope and relief to people passing through difficult circumstances.
Egbetokun, who expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve, also asked Nigerians to pray for him and his family, seeking divine guidance, protection, wisdom, good health and strength for the years ahead.
His birthday message equally carried a national appeal, with the former IGP urging Nigerians to pray for an end to insecurity, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, violence and other threats confronting communities across the country.
He called for prayers for leaders at all levels of government and security personnel serving across the country, particularly those risking their lives to protect citizens.
Egbetokun said Nigeria required collective prayers, wisdom, unity and responsible leadership to overcome its challenges and harness its enormous human and natural resources for the benefit of its people.
He also urged Nigerians to remember young people, children, families and vulnerable citizens, expressing hope for greater economic opportunities, social justice, unity and prosperity.
The former police chief described birthdays as moments for reflection and renewed commitment to service and humanity, rather than occasions for material celebration alone.
He appreciated those who had sent birthday messages, made calls, offered prayers and extended goodwill, stressing that prayers remained his greatest birthday gift.
“Please pray for me and my family. Pray for our nation. Pray for peace in our communities. Pray for those who are struggling. And where possible, extend a helping hand to someone in need,” he appealed.
Egbetokun concluded by praying for God’s blessings upon Nigerian families and enduring peace, unity and prosperity for the country.
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