President Tinubu Appoints Tunji Disu as Acting IGP Following Egbetokun's Resignation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), marking a significant leadership transition in the Nigeria Police Force. This appointment comes after the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun, the former IGP, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Disu, who was promoted to Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) in March 2025, assumes office less than a year after his elevation, highlighting a swift change in the police hierarchy.
Retirement Timeline and Tenure Clarification for the New IGP
Tunji Disu, born on April 13, 1966, enlisted in the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992. Under existing police regulations, officers must retire upon reaching 60 years of age or after 35 years of service, whichever occurs first. Prior to his appointment as IGP, Disu was fewer than 50 days away from the statutory retirement age of 60. Although he will not complete 35 years of service until May 2027, his elevation to the office of Inspector-General places him on a four-year tenure, in accordance with the provisions of the amended Police Act.
Unless he resigns or is removed by the president, Disu is therefore expected to remain in office until February 2029. This tenure clarification provides stability and continuity in the leadership of the police force, ensuring that Disu can implement long-term strategies and reforms during his term.
How Egbetokun's Case Set a Precedent for Police Leadership
Kayode Egbetokun was appointed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police on June 19, 2023, with his position later confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council on October 31, 2023. Having assumed office at the age of 58, he was originally due to retire on September 4, 2024, upon turning 60. However, amendments to the Police Act by the National Assembly enabled serving IGPs to complete a four-year term, regardless of age, unless they step down or are removed.
Under that revised legal framework, Egbetokun was projected to remain in office until October 31, 2027, before his resignation this week. This precedent highlights how legislative changes have reshaped the tenure and retirement policies for top police officials, allowing for extended service beyond traditional age limits.
Profile of the New Police Chief: Tunji Disu
Tunji Disu is a career police officer with more than three decades of operational and administrative experience. Born on Lagos Island, he began his policing career in May 1992. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English Education from Lagos State University, as well as a postgraduate diploma in International Relations and Strategic Studies. Additionally, he earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from Adekunle Ajasin University and another in Criminology, Security and Legal Psychology from Lagos State University.
His extensive educational background and long service record position him as a well-qualified leader for the Nigeria Police Force, capable of addressing complex security challenges and driving institutional reforms.
Political Reactions and Support for the New IGP
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated Tunji Disu on his appointment as the acting Inspector-General of Police. In a statement issued by Gboyega Akosile, his special adviser on media and publicity, the governor described the appointment as an honor to Lagos State, noting Disu's roots as an indigene of Lagos Island. This endorsement reflects broader political support for Disu's leadership and underscores the significance of his appointment in the context of national security and governance.
The transition in police leadership comes at a critical time, with ongoing efforts to enhance law enforcement effectiveness and public safety across Nigeria. Disu's tenure is expected to focus on implementing strategic initiatives to combat crime, improve police-community relations, and uphold the rule of law.
