President Bola Tinubu has directed the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to strengthen discipline within the Nigeria Police Force and deliver improved security outcomes as the nation grapples with banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities.
President Tinubu issued the directive on Wednesday at the State House, Abuja, during the decoration of Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police, following the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun and pending ratification of the appointment by the Nigeria Police Council and confirmation by the Senate.
He urged the new police chief to lead with integrity, demand professionalism at every level of the Nigeria Police Force, and ensure that the protection of lives and property remains the institution’s highest priority.
The Nigeria Police Council is expected to meet next week to consider the appointment.
The President further emphasised that Nigerians expect tangible improvements in policing and security under the new leadership, expressing confidence in Disu’s capacity to make the Nigeria Police Force more effective in responding to the country’s current security challenges.
“And now you assume this responsibility at a defining moment for our nation’s security and I expect you to strengthen the discipline, enhance inter-agency collaboration and restore public confidence in Nigerian police.
“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge and I know you can do it. You have my full support as you have to advance the security pillars of Renew Hope Agenda.
“The commitment Nigerians need from you is for you to make it better than you made it. And I’m sure you can do it. Nigeria is challenged right now with banditry, terrorism and all sorts of criminal activities.”The President stated.
President Tinubu explained that the challenge before the new police leadership is to demonstrate the resolve and commitment required to ensure that Nigeria prevails over its current security challenges.
“You’ve been part of the thinking and you’ve been part of the innovation , the challenge as you hold the passion of this leadership is the belief that you will exert and Nigeria will prevail,” he said.
The Nigerian leader commended the outgoing Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his dedication, leadership, and service to the nation, he described his tenure as impactful in sustaining law and order across the country.
He noted that the former police chief served with professionalism and devotion, earning the appreciation of the nation.
“To the outgoing Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, I extend the gratitude of the entire country of Nigeria.
“We are a grateful nation to you. For your dedication and service, exhibition of good leadership, you have served with commitment and extension. And Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order in our country.
“As we conclude this chapter of public life, I wish you and your family continued peace, good health and success in all your future endeavors. You’re outgoing. One thing you should look back and remember is this,” the President stated.
President Tinubu underscored the importance of leadership continuity, noting that the success of a successor is part of the legacy of an outgoing leader.
He expressed confidence that the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, who had served as Egbetokun’s Principal Staff Officer and worked closely with him, understands the operations of the Force and would sustain ongoing reforms.
“You have not succeeded without a good successor. Therefore, the success of a two-year D.C. IGP, when confirmed, is part of your responsibility and the joy that you should look forward to. I’m also, having been your principal staff officer before, and I have no doubt he understands the ins and outs of the operation. He will only improve. He’s an operational person, from what I know. Nigeria is challenged.
President Tinubu wished Egbetokun and his family continued peace, good health, and success in their future endeavours, as he concluded this chapter of his public service.
The Nigerian leader concluded by saying that safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians is a collective responsibility, especially at this critical period for the nation.
He urged all security stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard lives and property during this critical period.
Present at the decoration were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, AIG Hakeem Odumosu (rtd), senior government officials, as well as the parents and family members of the Acting IGP.