President Bola Tinubu presided over a pivotal meeting of the Nigeria Police Council at the State House, Abuja, on Monday, which culminated in the formal confirmation of Tunji Disu as the substantive Inspector-General of Police (IGP). This crucial gathering aimed to formalize Disu’s appointment, transitioning him from his acting capacity following the resignation of former IGP, Kayode Egbetokun.

The closed-door session was convened to affirm Disu’s nomination. Kayode Egbetokun had resigned, citing "pressing family considerations," after having been appointed IGP on June 19, 2023, to replace Usman Baba, and subsequently confirmed by the Police Council in October 2023. President Tinubu had appointed Disu as acting IGP on February 24, setting the stage for this latest confirmation.

The high-level meeting saw the attendance of key government officials, underscoring the significance of the appointment. Among those present were Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Police Affairs Ibrahim Gaidam, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike. Also in attendance were numerous state governors, including those from Kwara, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, Enugu, and Plateau, alongside other statutory members of the council.

In compliance with the Police Act 2020, following the council’s endorsement, President Tinubu is expected to transmit Disu’s appointment to the Senate for confirmation. The Nigeria Police Council, established as an advisory organ under the Police Act 2020, is chaired by the President and comprises the governors of the 36 states of the federation, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, and the Inspector-General of Police, playing a strategic oversight role on key policing matters.

Disu’s confirmation comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with multifaceted security challenges, highlighting the importance of stable leadership at the helm of the nation’s policing architecture. His appointment is widely expected to signal continuity in ongoing security reforms and efforts aimed at strengthening public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

A seasoned officer, Tunji Disu joined the force in 1992 and has accumulated extensive experience in various key leadership roles nationwide. Before his current appointment, he recently assumed duty as the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) annex, Alagbon, Lagos State. His distinguished career includes serving as Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos, Head of the Intelligence Response Team, Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory, and AIG in charge of the Special Protection Unit. Academically, Disu holds a bachelor’s degree in English Education from Lagos State University, along with master’s degrees in Public Administration, Criminology, and Security and Legal Psychology.