By The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday decorated Olatunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police and charged him to restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force and strengthen security nationwide.
The directive was contained in a State House press statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following the ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Disu’s decoration comes after the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday, February 23, and is subject to ratification by the Nigeria Police Council and confirmation by the Senate, which the President said would take place next week.
“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” Tinubu said.
Describing the appointment as coming at a critical time, the President urged the new police chief to rebuild trust in the Force through professionalism and collaboration with other security agencies.
“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” he added.
Tinubu further charged Disu to drive the security component of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence in his discipline, operational experience and leadership capacity.
“Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” the President said.
He also paid tribute to the outgoing IGP, Egbetokun, urging him to support his successor.
“You have not succeeded without a good successor. His success will also be part of your legacy,” Tinubu stated.
The President called on all security stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard lives and property during what he described as a critical period for the country.
Dignitaries present at the event included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; and retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, alongside senior government officials and family members of the Acting IGP.
In a period where the nation is currently battling with insecurity, kidnapping, killing, religious violence, police extortion, among others, Nigerians are looking up to the acting IGP to commence work immediately and see to stability within the country.
