President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mr Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Mr Kayode Egbetokun from the nation’s top policing office.
The appointment marks a significant leadership transition within the Nigeria Police Force, coming months after President Tinubu had approved an extension of Egbetokun’s tenure beyond the statutory retirement period. The reasons for Egbetokun’s resignation have not been officially disclosed as of the time of this report.
Mr Tunji Disu, a seasoned senior police officer with decades of operational and administrative experience, steps into the role at a time when the country faces complex security challenges, including insurgency threats in parts of the North-East, banditry in the North-West, separatist tensions in the South-East, and persistent urban criminality.
Disu is widely regarded within security circles as an officer with strong field credentials. He has previously served in key command and strategic roles, including heading elite tactical formations and overseeing high-profile investigations. His appointment is expected to reinforce ongoing internal reforms within the force, particularly around intelligence-led policing, operational efficiency, and public trust rebuilding.
Egbetokun’s tenure, though relatively short, was characterised by efforts to modernise police operations, expand technological capacity, and recalibrate community policing frameworks. However, his extended stay in office had generated debate in some quarters over tenure regulations within the public service, making his resignation a notable development in Nigeria’s security administration landscape.
Security analysts say Disu’s immediate priorities will likely include consolidating internal discipline, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and stabilising morale within the force during the leadership transition. Observers also note that restoring public confidence in law enforcement remains a critical imperative, particularly amid growing demands for accountability and professional conduct.
The Presidency has yet to release detailed remarks outlining the policy direction expected under Disu’s acting leadership. However, sources close to the administration suggest the appointment reflects President Tinubu’s broader objective of sustaining momentum in security sector reforms while ensuring continuity in command structure.
As Acting Inspector-General, Disu will oversee nationwide policing operations pending confirmation or further presidential directives. His leadership will be closely watched by both security stakeholders and the general public, given the central role of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining internal stability and enforcing the rule of law.
Further official briefings are expected in the coming days.
