Police Reforms Won’t Affect Officers, IGP Assures

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for stronger cooperation among traditional institutions, security agencies and local communities to promote lasting peace, unity and development across the country.

The IGP also assured officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force that ongoing police reforms would not threaten their careers, welfare, pensions or other accrued benefits.

Disu made the remarks on Monday during a working visit to Jigawa State, where he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi, attended the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) in Dutse, and addressed officers of the Jigawa State Police Command.

At the meeting, the police chief praised the council, led by Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto, for its continued efforts in promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence and national unity. He stressed that traditional rulers play a vital role in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, community engagement and early warning systems.

According to him, stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and security agencies remains essential to tackling insecurity and driving development, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

During his meeting with Governor Namadi, Disu reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to partnering with the state government and other stakeholders to improve public safety and strengthen community-based policing initiatives.

Addressing concerns about the proposed creation of state police, the IGP said officers had no reason to worry. He explained that the reform is designed to strengthen the country’s security framework while maintaining a strong national police structure capable of handling interstate and national security challenges.

The police reforms initiative, he noted, will continue to protect officers’ welfare, career growth and retirement benefits. He also urged personnel to remain professional, disciplined and committed to their constitutional duties.

Disu warned against corruption, extortion and abuse of office, while encouraging officers to embrace intelligence-led policing, community engagement and respect for human rights as part of the ongoing police reforms agenda.