President Bola Ahmed Tinubu charges the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to restore peace and reinforce security operations nationwide, declaring his full backing for the new police chief.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the directive is issued on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja during the official decoration ceremony of Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police, following the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun.
The appointment remains subject to ratification by the Nigeria Police Council and confirmation by the Senate. In a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Council is expected to convene next week to deliberate on the appointment.
Mediaplusng.com reports that President Tinubu emphasizes that the decision to appoint Disu is based on his proven track record, recalling his performance and dedication during his service in Lagos when Tinubu served as governor of the state.
“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” the President states during the ceremony.
In further remarks monitored by Mediaplusng.com, the President describes the appointment as coming at a critical time, urging the Acting IGP to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies.
He calls on Disu to lead firmly but fairly, insisting on professionalism, discipline and accountability at all levels of command. The President underscores that the safety of lives and property must remain the highest priority of the Force.
“It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” the President assures, while urging the Acting IGP to advance the security pillars under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
President Tinubu highlights Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, including banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities, stressing that innovation, intelligence-driven policing and strategic thinking are essential to overcoming these threats.
He expresses confidence in Disu’s operational experience and leadership capacity, stating that committed leadership will enable Nigeria to prevail over insecurity.
The President also pays tribute to the outgoing Inspector-General, Kayode Egbetokun, who attends the ceremony alongside his spouse. He commends Egbetokun for his contributions to maintaining law and order during his tenure.
“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” the President remarks, urging him to remain available to offer guidance and support to his successor.
He adds that the success of the new Acting IGP will form part of Egbetokun’s legacy, reinforcing the importance of continuity and mentorship within the security architecture.
The President further calls on all security stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard lives and property during what he describes as a critical period for national stability.
Dignitaries present at the decoration include the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, retired AIG Hakeem Odumosu, senior government officials, as well as family members of the Acting IGP.
As the Nigeria Police Force enters a new leadership phase, expectations remain high that the Acting IGP will prioritize reforms, enhance operational efficiency and restore public trust in policing institutions across the country.
