By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu has been awarded the 2026 Public Service Award in recognition of his leadership, integrity, and contributions to the reform and improvement of Sierra Leone’s public sector.
The award was presented by the Ministry of Public Administration and Political Affairs during the Freetown commemoration of United Nations World Public Service Day.
Sellu was appointed Inspector General of Police on 27 July 2022. He has served for 33 years in the Sierra Leone Police, having joined the force as a cadet officer in 1993. Over the course of his career, he has held several senior positions, including Director of Crime Services, Director of Intelligence and Integrated Services, Regional Police Commander for the Southern Region, Head of Security at State House, and Local Unit Commander in various divisions. He also served for three years as Contingent Commander with the United Nations Mission in Sudan.
The IGP holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography and Linguistics from Njala University. Since assuming office, he has led a transformation agenda within the Sierra Leone Police, focusing on four key areas: infrastructure development, human resource capacity building, technological innovation, and improved delivery of national security services.
According to the Ministry of Public Administration and Political Affairs, the Public Service Award recognizes public officials who demonstrate exemplary service, institutional reform, and commitment to high standards in public administration. The award ceremony formed part of the UN World Public Service Day celebration in Freetown, an annual event that highlights the role of public servants in governance and national development.
Under Sellu’s leadership, the Sierra Leone Police has prioritized the renovation and upgrading of police stations and units, enhanced training and professional development for officers, and the adoption of modern technology to improve policing and crime management. The institution has also strengthened its focus on service delivery and national security.
The United Nations World Public Service Day, observed annually on 23 June, celebrates the value and importance of public service to communities worldwide. The Freetown event brought together government ministries, agencies, and development partners to recognize outstanding contributions by public officials.
Sellu’s appointment in July 2022 formed part of broader efforts to modernize the police force and align its operations with evolving security needs. His tenure has emphasized institutional reform and capacity building across the organization.
The 2026 Public Service Award adds to growing recognition of efforts within Sierra Leone’s public sector to strengthen governance, improve efficiency, and enhance service delivery across institutions.