New IGP Olatunji Disu Triumphs in Arm-Wrestling at 2026 Police Games
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Olatunji Disu as the acting Inspector General of Police of Nigeria, a move that has garnered significant attention. Disu, who previously served as the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, recently demonstrated his physical fitness at the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) held in Asaba. In a viral video, the former commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos State swiftly defeated an opponent in an arm-wrestling exhibition event, showcasing his strength and competitive spirit.
Disu's Background and Appointment Details
Olatunji Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police in 1992 and has since held various key leadership positions across the country. Before his current role, he was the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and trained at the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State. His appointment as acting IGP was officially announced on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, marking a new chapter in his distinguished career.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu wins an arm-wrestling contest at the 2026 Police Games in Asaba. Photo by: @TundeSmilez. Source: Twitter.
Highlights from the 2026 Police Games
The 2026 Police Games in Asaba saw intense competition among various police commands. The Force Headquarters (FHQ) emerged as the overall winner with 238 medals, narrowly beating the Lagos Command, which secured 236 medals. The Yenagoa Command finished in third place with 140 medals, according to reports from Guardian. Disu's participation in the arm-wrestling event added a personal touch to the games, highlighting his commitment to sports within the force.
Reactions from Sports Experts
Suleiman Musa, a multiple African judo champion and coach of the Kogi State Judo Association, praised Disu's appointment in an exclusive interview. He described it as a reward for hard work and professionalism, predicting that the sports department of the Nigeria Police would experience a significant turnaround under Disu's leadership. Musa emphasized Disu's background as a former national judo champion and his active involvement in sports, stating that officers would benefit from his experience.
Musa said, "I was with the Inspector General of Police at the Police Games in Asaba, and I can tell you that the officers love his personality. As a former national champion, IGP Disu will make a huge difference in the sports department of the Force." He also urged Disu to promote more combat sports among officers and expressed optimism about potential partnerships with the Nigeria Judo Federation.
Disu's Previous Sports Achievements
In addition to his recent arm-wrestling victory, Disu has a notable history in sports. He previously won a silver medal in the Veteran Judo category at the 33rd US Open Judo Championships held in the United States. This achievement underscores his dedication to athletics and his potential to inspire other officers to engage in sports activities.
President Bola Tinubu appoints a former National judoka, Olatunji Disu, as the new Inspector General of Police. Photo by: @dkuti82 Source: Getty Images.
The appointment of Olatunji Disu as acting IGP is seen as a strategic move that could revitalize sports within the Nigeria Police Force, leveraging his athletic background to foster a culture of fitness and competition among officers.
