By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Olutunji Disu, has approved the deployment of Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
This he said is part of a major restructuring aimed at improving security coordination and operational efficiency.
IGP Disu who stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, during a conference with senior police officers said the deployment which is immeidate is designed to bring senior command closer to operational theatres.
“I have approved the deployment of Deputy Inspector General of Police with our respective geopolitical zone, with effect from Monday 15 June 2026,” the police chief said.
He explained that the reform is intended to improve supervision and accountability across the force.
“This initiative is designed to strengthen supervision, improve operational coordination, enhance accountability, and provide closer strategic oversight of policing activities within their zones.”
Disu also stressed that the move is not symbolic but operationally driven, aimed at improving response to Nigeria’s evolving security threats.
This is as Nigeria continues to grapple with kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, armed robbery, cybercrime, and communal violence, prompting renewed calls for intelligence-led policing and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
Ongoing Rescue Operations in Oyo State
The police chief also confirmed ongoing operations to rescue abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State, assuring that efforts are being coordinated with other security agencies.
“We are making progress and will not rest until all the hostages are brought home safely,” the statement assured.
Security Successes Across the Country
Disu highlighted several recent operational breakthroughs, including arrests and recoveries across different theatres of operation.
“Since our last conference… the Force has recorded the arrest of 8 suspected terrorists, 55 suspected kidnapping suspects, and 29 murder suspects,” he noted.
It also confirmed the recovery of weapons and stolen assets.
“A total of 114 various firearms were recovered, while 843 ammunition of various calibres were also seized, alongside 28 stolen vehicles.”
In the Federal Capital Territory, police said intelligence-led operations foiled a planned kidnapping attack.
“A group of 5 suspected kidnappers were intercepted and arrested before they executed their plans,” the police leadership said.
Introduction of ‘Handshake Patrol’ Strategy
As part of new reforms, the IGP introduced a cross-border operational strategy known as “handshake patrol.”
“Commissioners of Police in contiguous states must establish coordinated patrols along all major entry and exit routes linking neighbouring states,” the directive stated.
The strategy is aimed at stopping criminals from exploiting state boundaries to evade arrest.
Crackdown on Concealed and Unregistered Vehicles
He also ordered a nationwide enforcement against vehicles without number plates or with concealed or tampered registration.
“From today, the Nigerian Police Force will no longer tolerate such acts of impunity,” the statement warned.
It added that offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
“Any vehicle found without number plates… will be stopped, impounded, and subjected to the appropriate legal process.”
Community Policing and Media Engagement
The police leadership also emphasized stronger community engagement and improved communication with the media.
“Community policing is not a slogan… it is a practical policing philosophy that recognizes security is best achieved in partnership with citizens,” the statement said.
Officers were urged to institutionalize monthly stakeholder engagements and improve information sharing to build public trust.
The police leadership reaffirmed commitment to reforms aimed at building a more professional and accountable force.
“Together, we shall continue to build a Nigerian Police Force that is professional, accountable, trusted by the people, and capable of responding effectively to the security challenges of our time.”
