President Tinubu Convenes Police Council Meeting to Formalize Olatunji Disu's Appointment as Substantive IGP

 President Bola Tinubu is set to chair a crucial meeting of the Nigeria Police Council today, Monday, March 2, 2026, where members will formally consider and ratify the appointment of Olatunji Disu as the substantive Inspector-General of Police. This step comes shortly after Disu assumed duties in an acting capacity following the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun.

The gathering, which is a mandatory requirement under the Police Act 2020, paves the way for Disu's name to be forwarded to the Senate for final confirmation as the nation's 23rd IGP. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga had earlier outlined the process in a statement, emphasizing that the council's endorsement is essential before proceeding to the legislative chamber.

Disu's elevation to acting IGP was announced on February 24, 2026, after President Tinubu accepted Egbetokun's resignation, which was attributed to pressing family considerations. Just days later, on February 25, the President personally decorated Disu with the insignia of his new rank during a ceremony at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. In his remarks at the event, Tinubu charged the new police chief to tackle the country's persistent security challenges head-on, restore public confidence in the force, and advance the objectives of his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda.

"Nigeria is challenged, but I have full confidence in your ability," Tinubu reportedly told Disu, assuring him of unwavering presidential support. The President highlighted Disu's extensive experience, discipline, and operational track record as key strengths that would help steer the Nigeria Police Force through a difficult period marked by banditry, kidnappings, and other threats across various regions.

Olatunji Rilwan Disu, born April 13, 1966, in Lagos State, brings a wealth of hands-on leadership to the top job. Before his promotion to Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), he headed the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos. He has also served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and led the elite Intelligence Response Team (IRT), earning a reputation for decisive action in high-profile investigations and operations.

His appointment as acting IGP took effect immediately, and he has already begun engaging with stakeholders. In recent days, Disu has stressed that national security is a shared responsibility, urging citizens to collaborate with law enforcement to build safer communities. This message aligns with major efforts to foster trust between the police and the public amid ongoing concerns about crime and policing effectiveness.

The Police Council, chaired by the President and comprising state governors, the IGP, and other key figures, plays a pivotal role in police governance and senior appointments. Today's meeting is expected to review Disu's credentials and performance in his brief time as acting chief before giving the green light for Senate screening.

Once confirmed by the upper chamber, Disu will serve a full term, potentially extending beyond his original retirement date in April 2026 (when he turns 60), thanks to provisions in the amended Police Act that allow for extended service in such positions.

The transition has sparked discussions within police circles about possible reshuffles among deputy and assistant inspectors-general, as is customary during changes at the helm. Several senior officers may face retirement or redeployment to accommodate the new leadership structure.

Some Nigerians see this as a strategic move by the Tinubu administration to inject fresh momentum into security efforts at a time when the nation grapples with multifaceted threats. With Disu's background in intelligence and investigations, many hope his tenure will emphasize proactive policing, better inter-agency coordination, and community-oriented strategies.