IGP Disu’s Engagement With Former Police Chiefs: A Strategic Step Towards A Stronger Nigeria Police Force -By Adewole Kehinde

The decision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to receive former Inspectors-General of Police at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, deserves commendation from all well-meaning Nigerians who desire a more effective, professional, and responsive Nigeria Police Force.

At a time when the nation continues to confront evolving security challenges, strategic engagements that bring together experienced leaders and serving administrators are not only necessary but indispensable. The meeting between IGP Disu and his predecessors represents a remarkable demonstration of visionary leadership, institutional maturity, and a commitment to sustaining reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.

The gathering, which focused on strengthening institutional collaboration and supporting the ongoing transformation of the Force, is a welcome development. It reflects the understanding that no institution can attain excellence without drawing from its history, preserving its institutional memory, and learning from the experiences of those who have previously led it.

Particularly commendable was the decision to engage former Inspectors-General of Police in discussions centered on leveraging their vast institutional knowledge, strategic insights, and operational experiences to address contemporary security challenges. The complexities of modern policing require innovative solutions, but such solutions are often strengthened when informed by the wisdom and lessons accumulated over decades of service.

The former police chiefs have collectively witnessed and managed different phases of Nigeria’s security landscape. Their experiences in tackling crime, managing personnel, implementing reforms, and maintaining public order constitute a reservoir of knowledge that can significantly enrich current policing strategies. By creating a platform for dialogue and consultation with these distinguished leaders, IGP Disu has demonstrated an appreciation for continuity and institutional learning.

It is equally important to commend the Inspector-General for expressing profound gratitude to his predecessors and acknowledging that their wealth of experience remains an invaluable asset to the administration of the Nigeria Police Force. Leadership is often strengthened when it embraces humility and recognizes the contributions of those who laid the foundation upon which current achievements are built.

IGP Disu’s gesture sends a powerful message across the Force and the nation that effective leadership is not about operating in isolation but about building bridges, fostering collaboration, and encouraging collective responsibility for institutional success. Such an approach is capable of promoting unity within the policing family while also enhancing public confidence in ongoing reform initiatives.

The Nigeria Police Force is currently undergoing significant transformation aimed at improving operational efficiency, professionalism, intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and public trust. Achieving these objectives requires not only the commitment of serving officers but also the guidance and support of respected retired leaders who understand the institution’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities.

The presence of former Inspectors-General of Police, including Aliyu Attah, Sunday Ehindero, Mike Mbama Okiro, Ogbonna Onachukwu Onovo, Abubakar Ringim, Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, Sulaiman Abba, Usman Alkali Baba, and Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, at the meeting underscores the shared commitment of past and present leadership to the advancement of the Force and the security of Nigeria.

As the Nigeria Police Force continues its journey of reform and modernization under the leadership of IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, it is my sincere hope that this engagement marks the beginning of a sustained consultative framework that will harness the expertise of retired police leaders for the benefit of the institution and the nation.

I therefore call on all the former Inspectors-General of Police who attended the meeting to continue supporting IGP Disu in his efforts to maintain law and order, protect lives and property, prevent and detect crimes, apprehend offenders, and enforce all federal and state laws across the country. Their guidance, mentorship, and strategic counsel will undoubtedly contribute to building a more efficient, accountable, and professional police force capable of meeting the security aspirations of Nigerians.

The task of securing our nation is a collective one. By bringing together the experience of yesterday and the vision of today, IGP Disu has taken a commendable step toward ensuring a safer and more secure Nigeria for all.

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst and commentator on governance, security, and national development. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com 08166240846