The newly appointed Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated an eight-member committee to oversee the implementation of state police in Nigeria.
The committee will be headed by Professor Olu Ogunsakin.
The announcement was made during his maiden meeting with senior strategic leaders of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja. Moreover, the IGP used the platform to unveil what he described as a new administrative phase for the Force.
The development signals a bold shift in policing structure. However, Disu made it clear that reforms would go beyond structure and focus on values.
The state police implementation committee is expected to guide the transition process and ensure coordination across commands. While details of the rollout are still emerging.
Addressing senior officers, Disu stressed that leadership demands responsibility. He said professionalism, accountability, and transparency would define his tenure. Under his leadership, he said such principles “shall not be slogans, but standards.”
He noted that leadership is “not about position but responsibility.” Furthermore, he insisted that professionalism and accountability must guide operations nationwide.
The IGP directed that the Public Complaint Unit and X-Squad be empowered to function independently. These units will strengthen internal oversight and address misconduct. Misconduct, including corruption and unlawful detention, was said to be unacceptable.
He warned that no officer is above the law. Disciplinary actions, including dismissal and prosecution, would be applied when necessary.
Respect for human rights was also emphasized. According to Disu, authority is strongest when exercised with restraint. Every Nigerian, he said, must be treated with dignity and fairness.
In addition, recruitment processes will be reviewed to ensure only qualified individuals are enlisted. Training programs will be modernized to reflect current security realities and global best practices.
Community policing will be prioritized. Commissioners of Police were urged to engage local communities and traditional institutions. Therefore, collaboration with the public will become central to security management.
The Force will also adopt intelligence-led and technology-driven methods. Investments in digital forensics, surveillance, and data analytics are expected to increase. These tools are seen as critical in addressing evolving threats.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Disu assured Nigerians of neutrality. The police, he said, will protect voters and electoral officials. Officers engaging in partisan conduct will face strict measures.
Officer welfare was not left out. Improvements in housing, healthcare, and remuneration were pledged. Better welfare, he said, would boost morale and performance.
