Promotion is a call to service, not reward — IGP Disu warns AIGs, CPs

2026-03-23 - 12:04

By Kingsley Omonobi The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has charged newly promoted Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) to view their elevation as a call to higher responsibility rather than a reward. Disu gave the charge on Monday during the decoration ceremony of senior officers at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja. He warned that there would be zero tolerance for indiscipline, abuse of office, corruption, or dereliction of duty under their commands. “You must ensure that policing in your jurisdictions is guided by professionalism, respect for human rights, and responsiveness to public needs. Officers must remain visible, approachable, and accountable,” he said. The IGP stressed that the era of policing that alienates the public is over, noting that building trust is critical for intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and effective law enforcement. He described the ceremony as more than symbolic, saying it represents a strategic investment in leadership at a time the country requires a more effective and accountable police force. While congratulating the officers, Disu noted that their promotion was earned through years of discipline and service, but comes with heightened expectations. “This promotion is not a reward; it is a responsibility,” he declared, adding that the officers must now act as strategic leaders whose conduct reflects integrity, discipline, and respect for the rule of law. He further warned that he would hold them accountable not only for operational outcomes but also for the conduct of officers under their supervision. The IGP reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to people-oriented policing, describing it as a core operational principle. As part of ongoing reforms, he directed the newly promoted officers to embrace innovation, improve operational efficiency, and eliminate outdated practices inconsistent with modern policing standards. Disu also announced that all newly promoted Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and AIGs will proceed on a strategic leadership retreat beginning March 24, 2026. According to him, the retreat, organised by the Police Reform Secretariat in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is aimed at strengthening transformational leadership, professionalism, and modern policing practices. He said participation is mandatory and would provide a platform for reflection, alignment, and capacity building to sustain reforms within the Force. The IGP further urged senior officers to prioritise mentorship by building capacity, identifying talent, and guiding younger officers to uphold professional standards. He assured personnel that promotions in the Force would continue to be based on merit, performance, and integrity. On institutional activities, Disu disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force will host the second edition of National Police Day on April 7, 2026, to enhance public engagement and institutional visibility. He said a week-long programme of activities, beginning March 30, will include medical outreach and community engagement initiatives across commands nationwide, culminating in a grand parade and award ceremony to honour outstanding officers. The IGP directed all commands to ensure active participation and execute the activities with professionalism. He also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in strengthening the country’s security architecture, and commended the Police Service Commission for ensuring transparency in the promotion process.