The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police and other strategic commanders across the country to strengthen intelligence-led policing,enhance inter-agency collaboration, and intensify efforts against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other emerging security threats.
The IGP gave the directive on Tuesday,during the Inspector-General of Police Conference (IGP Conference) held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, where senior police officers reviewed the nation’s security situation and mapped out strategies for improving policing nationwide.
Addressing participants, the police chief commended officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force for their dedication and resilience despite the challenging security environment, noting that their sacrifices continue to sustain public confidence in the institution.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the police, other senior officers, we meet as always to take stock of the country’s security situation, look honestly at how we are performing and shape our resolve to deliver policing that is effective, professional and accountable. That is why we are here today,” he said.
The IGP acknowledged recent operational gains but stressed that criminal groups continue to adapt, making it imperative for the police to remain ahead through intelligence-driven operations.
According to him, “The Nigerian security environment remains demanding. We have recorded great successes in recent months, but terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, cult-related violence, cybercrime and other organised criminal activities continue to evolve, and we have to evolve faster than them.”
He directed all strategic commanders to sharpen intelligence gathering, strengthen surveillance, improve police visibility and ensure that operational deployments are guided by credible intelligence rather than routine practices.
The police boss emphasised that the success of policing should be measured by security outcomes rather than the number of operations conducted, urging every Commissioner of Police to develop command-specific strategies tailored to the realities within their respective states.
Providing an update on recent operational achievements, Disu disclosed that since the last conference held on June 9, 2026, police operations across the country led to the arrest of 1,198 suspects for various offences.
The figure, he said, includes 151 suspects arrested for murder, 117 for armed robbery, 151 for kidnapping, 104 suspected cultists and 169 persons for unlawful possession of firearms.
He added that police operatives also rescued 166 kidnapped victims, recovered 166 firearms, 1,475 rounds of ammunition and 47 stolen vehicles.
“Behind every one of these numbers is an officer who did his job so well, often at personal risk. I want that to be understood and known that we notice what you do,” he said.
The IGP particularly praised the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oyo State, describing the operation as a clear demonstration of the results achievable through effective collaboration among security agencies.
He said the operation succeeded because of close cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and members of the public who provided timely and credible information.
“We took our time. We did not rush despite the pressure. We took the best decision, which we are all happy about today,” he stated, while cautioning that such successes must inspire greater commitment rather than complacency.
Disu also called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, stressing that community partnership remains essential to effective policing.
“If you see something, say something. Together we can make it harder for criminal elements to operate,” he said.
On police leadership and accountability, the IGP warned that corruption, extortion, abuse of authority, unlawful detention and other unethical practices would not be tolerated.
He reminded Commissioners of Police that leadership is defined by the standards they set and the results they deliver, urging them to uphold professionalism, discipline and respect for citizens’ rights.
The police chief further directed commissioners to deepen engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, schools, youth and women groups as part of efforts to strengthen community policing and improve crime prevention.
He also announced that all 37 Commissioners of Police will participate in a leadership workshop scheduled to hold from July 22 to 24 at the Nigeria Police School of Public Relations to strengthen leadership, communication and operational management skills.
Disu reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, while appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Force.
