IGP Disu Issues Directives for Enhanced Police Visibility and Public Confidence
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has issued a firm directive requiring all officers of the Nigeria Police Force to maintain high visibility, approachability, and accountability in their duties. This announcement was made during the decoration ceremony for newly promoted officers held in Abuja on Monday, March 23, 2026.
End of Alienating Policing Era
IGP Disu emphasized that the era of policing practices that alienate the public is now over. He called on officers to actively drive reforms within their respective areas of responsibility, stressing that building public trust is essential for effective law enforcement. "Our officers must be visible, approachable, and accountable. The era of policing that alienates the people is over. We must build trust deliberately and consistently," Disu stated.
Leadership Retreat with UNDP Collaboration
In a move to align senior officers with ongoing reform initiatives, the IGP announced that a strategic leadership retreat for newly promoted Assistant Inspectors-General of Police will commence on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. This retreat is organized by the Police Force Secretariat in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It aims to deepen reform efforts, focusing on transformational leadership, professionalism, and modern policing standards. Participation in the retreat is mandatory for all concerned senior officers.
National Police Day Celebration Set for April 7
IGP Disu also revealed that the Nigeria Police Force will host the 2nd edition of the National Police Day on April 7, 2026. This event is designed to celebrate the dedication and sacrifices of police officers while showcasing the force's evolution into a people-centered and service-driven institution. The celebration aims to strengthen institutional visibility, deepen community engagement, and reinforce public trust.
Promotion as a Responsibility, Not a Reward
During the decoration ceremony, IGP Disu addressed the newly promoted officers, including Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police, urging them to view their elevation as a responsibility rather than a reward. "This promotion is not a reward; it is a responsibility. It places you under greater scrutiny and demands a higher standard of leadership, judgment, and conduct," he said. He emphasized zero tolerance for indiscipline, abuse of office, corruption, or dereliction of duty, holding senior officers accountable for the conduct of their personnel.
Commitment to People-Oriented Policing
The IGP reiterated the force's commitment to people-oriented policing as a core operational principle. He called for policing driven by professionalism, respect for human rights, and responsiveness to public needs. "Intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and effective law enforcement are all strengthened when the public has confidence in us," Disu added, highlighting the importance of community trust in enhancing security operations.
Drive for Reform and Innovation
IGP Disu encouraged officers to embrace innovation and eliminate outdated practices that do not align with modern policing standards. He stressed the need for the force to evolve operationally, technologically, and ethically to meet contemporary challenges. The leadership retreat and Police Day events are part of broader efforts to sustain these reform agendas across the Nigeria Police Force.
