Tinubu to Acting IGP Disu: Restore Peace, Rebuild Trust — “You Have My Full Support”

ByNewsmakers

Feb 25, 2026 #Acting IGP Disu, #Bola Tinubu, #Kayode Egbetokun retirement, #national security Nigeria, #Nigeria Police Council, #Nigeria Police Force, #Olatunji Disu, #Renewed Hope Agenda, #Senate confirmation, #State House Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu decorating newly-appointed acting IGP Olatunji Ridwan Disu at the State House, Abuja, today.

Segun Atanda/

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday formally decorated Olatunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police, charging him to restore peace and strengthen security across the country at a time of mounting security challenges.

The ceremony, held at the State House, Abuja, followed the retirement of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun, pending the Nigeria Police Council’s ratification and Senate confirmation of Disu’s appointment. The Council is expected to meet next week.

In a direct and personal charge, President Tinubu told the new police chief that his appointment was based on proven loyalty, dedication and operational competence.

“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,” the President said.

He described the appointment as coming at a critical moment in Nigeria’s security trajectory and urged Disu to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The President tasked the Acting IGP with advancing the security pillars of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in confronting banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes.

“Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” he said, expressing confidence in Disu’s discipline, operational experience and leadership capacity.

Tinubu reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria would prevail under committed and coordinated leadership, urging all security stakeholders to work collectively in safeguarding lives and property.

The President also paid glowing tribute to the outgoing IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, who attended the ceremony alongside his spouse.

“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” Tinubu said.

He encouraged Egbetokun to remain available to offer counsel to his successor, noting that Disu’s success would also form part of his legacy.

“You have not succeeded without a good successor. His success will also be part of your legacy,” the President added.

The ceremony drew key figures in Nigeria’s security and political leadership, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, and retired AIG Hakeem Odumosu, alongside senior government officials and members of Disu’s family.

With the formal decoration complete, attention now shifts to the Nigeria Police Council’s ratification and the Senate’s confirmation, as Acting IGP Disu assumes leadership at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.