Federal Government Gazettes New Police Regulations, Mandates Full Enforcement
The Ministry of Police Affairs has officially presented gazetted Nigerian Police Force (NPF) regulations to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, with a directive for their comprehensive implementation. This significant move is backed by the Nigerian Police Act No 2, 2020, specifically Section 138, which empowers the enforcement of such regulations to modernize the force.
Minister and Permanent Secretary Emphasize Transformation
Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, underscored that this exercise is crucial for transforming the Police Force to meet global best standards. He urged the IGP to ensure full compliance, highlighting the legal foundation provided by the Act.
In a welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya Nlia, described the presentation as a milestone in efforts to reposition the NPF. He stated that the regulations, gazetted in February 2026, represent a renewed commitment to professionalism, discipline, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.
Nlia emphasized the growing need for comprehensive and up-to-date police regulations in the 21st century that align with democratic values and public aspirations. "The regulations are therefore designed to provide clear operational guidelines, ensure institutional accountability, and enhance service delivery across the force," he explained.
Extensive Consultations and Collaboration
The permanent secretary revealed that the document is the result of extensive consultations and collaboration among critical stakeholders. These include:
- The Nigerian Police Force (NPF)
- The Police Service Commission
- The Ministry of Justice
- The National Human Rights Commission
- The Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria
- The United Nations Development Programme
- Various civil society organizations
This collaborative approach ensures that the regulations are robust and inclusive, addressing modern policing needs while upholding human rights and accountability.
Replacing Outdated 1943 Document
The new regulations serve as an updated version of the 1943 Police document, which has become outdated and inconsistent with contemporary policing practices and global standards. This update is seen as a necessary step to bridge gaps and align the NPF with international best practices.
HURIWA Advocates for State Police with Safeguards
In a related development, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has reiterated its stance on the creation of state police forces as a constitutional necessity in response to Nigeria's evolving security challenges. However, the group cautioned that such institutions must not become tools for political control by state governors.
HURIWA called for a strong constitutional framework to ensure:
- Operational independence of state police commands
- Transparent recruitment processes free from executive manipulation
- Independent oversight bodies involving civil society, judiciary, and federal representatives
- Strict prohibition of political interference by state governors in policing operations
- A professional command structure based on merit, competence, and seniority
This reflects the group's long-standing position on the need for holistic restructuring of Nigeria's internal security architecture.
POWA Reaffirms Support for Police Families
Meanwhile, the Police Officers' Wives Association (POWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting police families through welfare and empowerment initiatives. During a courtesy visit to IGP Disu at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the President of the association, Olufunmilola Disu, stated that POWA's interventions aim to strengthen police families and, by extension, enhance the NPF's effectiveness.
Olufunmilola emphasized that POWA remains dedicated to initiatives that boost morale, promote family stability, and reinforce values of service and discipline within and outside the barracks. This support is seen as vital for maintaining a motivated and effective police force.
The gazetting and enforcement of these new regulations mark a pivotal step in the ongoing efforts to reform and professionalize the Nigerian Police Force, ensuring it is better equipped to serve and protect the nation in line with democratic principles and global standards.
