The Acting Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has delivered a stern warning to newly promoted Assistant Inspectors General and Commissioners of Police regarding their new roles. During a decoration ceremony held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the police boss emphasized that promotion in the force is a “call to service” rather than a mere reward for past activities. He urged the senior officers to view their new ranks as a mandate to provide better security for the Nigerian people.
The IGP noted that the current security challenges facing the country require leaders who are proactive, disciplined, and committed to the core values of the force. He reminded the officers that the higher the rank, the greater the responsibility to ensure that the men and women under their command behave professionally. This warning comes at a time when the police force is working hard to rebuild public trust through various reform initiatives.
Enhancing the operational efficiency of the force
The police chief argued that the promotion of these senior officers should result in a visible improvement in the security situation across the different zones. He has tasked the new AIGs and CPs with developing innovative strategies to combat the rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, and cybercrime in their respective jurisdictions. The IGP believes that a rank is only as good as the impact the officer makes on the safety of the citizens they serve.
He emphasized that the force will no longer tolerate lethargy or excuses when it comes to the protection of lives and property. The newly decorated officers have been ordered to lead from the front and to ensure that their subordinates adhere strictly to the rules of engagement. By setting a high standard of leadership, the IGP hopes to create a ripple effect of excellence that reaches every police post in the federation.
Maintaining discipline and professional ethics
A major part of the IGP’s address focused on the need for the senior officers to be above board in their personal and professional conduct. He warned that any officer found engaging in corrupt practices or abusing their power will face severe disciplinary actions, regardless of their rank. The force leadership is determined to weed out the “bad eggs” who tarnish the image of the police through unprofessional behavior on the streets.
The Inspector General urged the officers to embrace technology and modern policing techniques to stay ahead of the criminal elements who are becoming more sophisticated. He noted that the days of relying solely on “brawn” are over, and the modern police officer must be an intellectual who can navigate complex legal and social terrains. The force is investing in continuous training to ensure that its leadership remains competitive on the global stage.
Improving the relationship with the community
The IGP reminded the officers that the police cannot succeed without the cooperation and support of the communities they serve. He encouraged the new AIGs and CPs to foster a better relationship with traditional rulers, youth groups, and civil society organizations in their zones. Community policing remains a vital pillar of the administration’s strategy to gather actionable intelligence and prevent crimes before they happen.
He pointed out that when the public sees the police as partners and protectors, they are more likely to share information that can lead to the arrest of criminals. The senior officers have been tasked with organizing town hall meetings and outreach programs to bridge the gap between the force and the people. A police force that is respected by the community is a force that is far more effective at maintaining law and order.
The future of the Nigerian Police Force
As the newly promoted officers take up their new assignments, the expectations from the government and the public are higher than ever. The IGP has promised to provide all necessary resources and equipment to help them succeed in their missions. However, he also warned that there will be constant monitoring and evaluation of their performance to ensure they are meeting their targets.
The promotion exercise is part of a broader plan to strengthen the internal structure of the Nigerian Police Force and prepare it for the challenges of the future. By placing the right people in the right positions, the IGP intends to create a more resilient and responsive security apparatus. For the officers decorated in Abuja, the real work begins now as they move to their new commands to prove their worth.
