The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has formally inaugurated a committee on State Policing, describing the initiative as a major step toward enhancing Nigeria’s internal security framework and promoting community-focused policing nationwide.
Disu highlighted that the committee’s work is both “significant and timely,” stressing that the nation’s evolving security landscape demands innovative approaches, strategic partnerships, and bold reforms to ensure policing aligns with local realities.
Prof Olu Ogunsakin has been appointed Chairman of the committee, with CP Bode Ojajuni as Secretary. Other members include CP Okebuchi Ogora, CP Suleiman Guma, CP Okechukwu Okagor, CSP Tolulope Ipimiso, and CP Emmanuel Ojukwu (RTD).
The IGP explained that the committee is tasked with creating a practical framework for state policing in Nigeria, one that strengthens local law enforcement without compromising the national security structure.
He emphasised that the committee will review domestic and international policing models, evaluate community security priorities, identify potential risks, and design an operational structure to coordinate state police systems effectively.
In addition, Disu noted, the committee will examine recruitment practices, training standards, resource distribution, and accountability mechanisms to ensure professionalism and maintain public trust in the police.
“If properly implemented, state policing will bring law enforcement closer to communities, improve understanding of local security challenges, and enable faster response to emerging threats,” he said.
Disu added that decentralising certain policing responsibilities would allow state governments and local authorities to manage security issues more effectively, while the federal government focuses on overarching national security priorities.
Reassuring officers of the Nigeria Police Force, he stated, “The Nigerian Police Force will continue to play its constitutional role as the primary national law enforcement institution responsible for maintaining internal security across the federation.”
He further explained that the reforms aim to enhance efficiency, allowing the federal police to concentrate on complex and transnational crimes, including terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, and trafficking networks.
“The vision we seek is one of synergy, not competition; partnership, not duplication,” the IGP emphasised.
Disu urged committee members to approach their duties with diligence, professionalism, and patriotism, noting that Nigerians have high expectations and that the committee’s recommendations will be crucial in shaping the future of policing in the country.
