JUST IN: Police Council Confirms Disu as Substantive IGP

Nigeria’s policing leadership has entered a new phase after the National Police Council unanimously endorsed Olatunji Disu as the substantive Inspector-General of Police, paving the way for his formal confirmation.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. 

The session, which lasted less than an hour, fulfilled statutory requirements under the Police Act 2020 mandating council review of any appointment to the nation’s top police office.

Confirmation of the endorsement was provided by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, who stated that the council’s resolution was unanimous. 

He said the outcome clears the administrative hurdle before the President transmits the nomination to the Senate for legislative confirmation.

Moreover, the meeting followed through on an earlier assurance by the Presidency that the council would be convened after the resignation of former Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun. 

That commitment was made shortly after his exit from office last week.

Disu, 59, had been overseeing the police in an acting capacity since Wednesday. 

His elevation to substantive IGP signals continuity at the helm of the Nigeria Police Force, especially amid ongoing security reforms and operational restructuring across the country.

According to officials familiar with the deliberations, the council’s intervention was procedural but significant. 

“The law is clear about the process. Today’s meeting ensured institutional compliance and stability in the command structure,” a senior government source said.

Attendance at the council session reflected its constitutional composition. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Head of the Civil Service Didi Walson-Jack were present.

Several state governors also participated, including those of Enugu State, Nasarawa State, Ogun State, Kwara State, Plateau State, Ondo State and Lagos State. 

In addition, the Deputy Governor of Kogi State and cabinet members overseeing the Federal Capital Territory, Police Affairs and Interior were in attendance.

The National Police Council, chaired by the President, comprises all 36 state governors, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of Police. 

Its role in senior police appointments underscores the federal character of Nigeria’s security governance structure.

Although Egbetokun formally attributed his resignation to personal considerations, insiders indicated that discussions at the Presidential Villa preceded his departure. 

However, official statements have maintained that due process was observed in the transition.

Consequently, attention now shifts to the Senate, where Disu’s nomination will undergo scrutiny before final confirmation. 

If cleared, he will assume full authority as substantive Inspector-General at a time when public expectations for improved internal security remain high.