Tunji Disu, the acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has described his elevation to the highest position in the Nigeria Police Force as both humbling and deeply emotional, noting that the appointment came at a time he least anticipated.
Bola Tinubu has appointed him as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun over what was described as pressing family issues.
The appointment, announced on Tuesday, was formalised on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja, where the President decorated Disu with his new rank after a high-level briefing. The development marks a significant leadership transition within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Speaking shortly after assuming office at the Force Headquarters, Disu described his elevation as humbling and deeply emotional, noting that it came at a time he least expected.
“The appointment means a lot to me because of my love for the profession and for the country. I was not expecting it, and I thank the President for finding me worthy,” he said.
Disu added that the President’s public remarks acknowledging his career trajectory and past assignments were both touching and motivating.
According to him, the recognition signalled that officers serving across the country are being closely observed and evaluated, a development he said places an even greater responsibility on him to deliver results.
Outlining his vision, the acting IGP pledged to prioritise peace, stability, and national cohesion, stressing that effective policing cannot be achieved without the cooperation of citizens.
He described Nigerians as the “real bosses” of the police, noting that one of his immediate engagements with officers would centre on reinforcing the importance of community partnership in law enforcement
“Policing anywhere in the world cannot succeed without public cooperation,” he emphasised.
Disu also promised to improve the welfare of officers, arguing that a motivated workforce is better equipped to serve the nation effectively. He said boosting morale, strengthening operational coordination, and enhancing professionalism would be central to his leadership.
On discipline and accountability, the new police chief declared that the era of impunity within the Force is over. He pledged strict adherence to human rights standards and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
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While acknowledging Nigeria’s prevailing security challenges — including banditry and insurgency — Disu commended officers for their sacrifices and assured them of stronger institutional support under his watch.
In his remarks, the immediate past IGP, Egbetokun, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him over the years, from his time as Chief Security Officer (CSO) during Tinubu’s tenure as governor of Lagos to his appointment as IGP.
He described the handover as significant, noting his longstanding professional relationship and mentorship ties with Disu under Tinubu’s leadership.
Egbetokun recalled a lesson he learned from the President during his days as Lagos governor — that effective leadership requires succession planning and deliberate investment in capable successors.
He said he consciously nurtured competent officers within the Force and expressed satisfaction that one of them has now emerged as acting IGP.
Highlighting Disu’s track record, Egbetokun pointed to his involvement in intelligence coordination, inter-agency collaboration, dismantling criminal syndicates, and implementing presidential directives — including the withdrawal of police personnel from unauthorised VIP protection.