Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated an eight-member State Police Implementation Committee aimed at advancing the rollout of decentralised policing and improving security coordination across the country.
The committee was formally introduced during the IGP’s first high-level engagement with senior officers following his confirmation as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of Police.
The meeting came shortly after the Nigeria Police Council ratified his appointment, paving the way for his swearing-in by Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Leading the newly established committee is Professor Olu Ogunsakin, who will coordinate efforts to develop frameworks for implementing state policing across Nigeria.
Focus on Professionalism and Human Rights
During his address to top police leadership, Disu emphasised that effective policing requires responsibility, discipline, and accountability.
He stressed that leadership in the police force should prioritise service to citizens rather than authority.
According to the IGP, law enforcement officers must uphold professionalism and ensure respect for human rights, fairness, and justice in every interaction with Nigerians.
He noted that authority is strongest when exercised responsibly and with restraint.
Disu also announced plans to strengthen internal accountability mechanisms within the Nigeria Police Force.
As part of the reforms, the Public Complaint Unit and the X-Squad will be empowered to operate independently in order to improve oversight and address misconduct within the force.
State Police Reform and Nigeria’s Security Challenges
The establishment of the implementation committee comes amid rising security concerns across Nigeria, including kidnappings, banditry, and communal attacks in several regions.
The state police initiative is a key element of broader security sector reforms aimed at decentralising policing authority.
Under the proposed structure, state governments would play a more active role in maintaining security within their jurisdictions while coordinating with federal law enforcement agencies.
Disu assumed office after the resignation of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun. His appointment was announced on February 24, 2026, and later unanimously endorsed by the Nigeria Police Council.
Security analysts believe the success of the state police implementation committee could significantly improve response times to crime and strengthen collaboration between local and national security institutions.
