
The National Police Council has confirmed Olatunji Disu as the substantive Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
His nomination will now be forwarded to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
Disu was decorated as Acting Inspector-General of Police on Wednesday, February 25, following the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun.
Egbetokun had submitted his resignation on Tuesday, citing family matters that required his attention, which was promptly accepted by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the President expressed confidence in Disu’s leadership, recalling his service record during their time in Lagos.
“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.
Describing the appointment as coming at a critical moment for the nation’s security, Tinubu urged the new police chief to rebuild public confidence in the Force and deepen collaboration with other security agencies.
“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” he added.
The President called on Disu to advance the security pillars of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that Nigeria continues to face challenges including banditry, terrorism and other forms of criminality.
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ADVERTISE WITH US“Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” Tinubu said, expressing confidence that the country would prevail under committed leadership.
Meanwhile he also paid tribute to the outgoing Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, thanking him for his service to the nation and maintaining law and order.
“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” Tinubu said.
He encouraged Egbetokun to remain available to support his successor, noting that the success of the new IGP would also form part of his legacy.
Present at the ceremony were 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.
Disu’s appointment comes just 48 days before he would have reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 on April 13, 2026.
Under the amended Police Act, however, an IGP is eligible to serve a four-year tenure regardless of age, allowing Disu to potentially remain in office for the next few years.
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