The former lnspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has appealed to family members, friends, colleagues and other well-wishers celebrating his birthday to channel the resources they would have spent on gifts into acts of kindness that benefit people in need.
Egbetokun made the appeal as he marked his birthday, encouraging those wishing to honour him to embrace gestures that promote compassion, generosity and community support rather than presenting him with personal gifts.
The former Inspector-General said converting birthday gifts into acts of kindness would give the celebration a greater sense of purpose and create a positive impact beyond the immediate occasion.
According to him, birthdays should not only be occasions for personal celebration but also opportunities to reflect on how individuals can contribute meaningfully to the lives of others, particularly vulnerable members of society.
He urged his well-wishers to consider supporting people facing hardship, assisting struggling families, helping disadvantaged children and contributing to initiatives that improve the welfare of communities.
Egbetokun said such gestures would be a more valuable expression of goodwill than conventional birthday presents, stressing that acts of kindness have the potential to touch lives and inspire others to do the same.
The former police chief also called on those who intend to celebrate him to look around their communities and identify individuals who require assistance, noting that even modest contributions can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
He emphasised that kindness does not necessarily have to involve large financial donations, as simple gestures such as providing food, paying someone’s school expenses, supporting medical needs or helping a person in distress can have lasting effects.
The former IGP’s appeal reflects a broader message about the importance of using personal milestones as opportunities to promote social responsibility and encourage a culture of giving.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerians and other well-wishers for their prayers, goodwill and support, saying that the thoughtfulness behind their birthday messages remained deeply valued.
Rather than receiving gifts for himself, Egbetokun encouraged his well-wishers to extend the same goodwill to people who may not have the means to meet their basic needs.
He noted that spreading kindness could strengthen bonds within communities and encourage a more compassionate society, particularly at a time when many families and individuals are confronting economic and social difficulties.
The former Inspector-General further urged members of the public to make generosity and concern for others a regular part of their lives, rather than limiting such gestures to birthdays, anniversaries or other special occasions.
He said the true value of a celebration should be measured not only by the joy it brings to the celebrant but also by the positive difference it makes in the lives of other people.
Egbetokun therefore appealed to all those celebrating his birthday with him to turn their goodwill into practical acts of kindness, saying that helping others would be the most meaningful gift they could offer in his honour.