President Bola Tinubu has charged the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to lead the police force with firmness and fairness while restoring public confidence in law enforcement across the country.
The President gave the charge on Wednesday at the State House, Abuja, during the decoration of Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police, following the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun.
Tinubu said Disu’s appointment was based on his track record and dedication in previous assignments within the Nigeria Police Force.
“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 said.
He urged the new police chief to demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains the highest priority.
“It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word; you have my full support,” Tinubu added.
The President described the appointment as coming at a critical time, calling on Disu to rebuild public trust in the police and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies to tackle banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities.
Disu’s appointment is subject to ratification by the Nigeria Police Council and confirmation by the Senate, with the Council expected to meet next week.
In his remarks after the decoration, Disu pledged to reposition the Force through professionalism, respect for human rights and zero tolerance for corruption. He emphasised that effective policing depends heavily on cooperation between officers and members of the public.
“The citizens of the country are the boss. No police anywhere in the world can succeed without the cooperation of members of the public,” he said.
He promised to reorient officers to end impunity, strengthen discipline and prioritise continuous training and capacity building in line with global best practices.
Disu also assured officers of improved welfare, noting that a motivated workforce is essential for delivering results.
The outgoing IGP, Egbetokun, urged his successor to consolidate ongoing reforms, including improved intelligence coordination, dismantling of criminal syndicates and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. He expressed confidence that Disu would surpass the achievements recorded during his tenure.
Also present at the ceremony were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, among other senior government officials and security stakeholders.
Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Ademola Adeleke of Osun State also congratulated the new acting IGP, expressing confidence in his ability to provide focused and professional leadership at a crucial period in Nigeria’s security landscape.
