IGP deploys DIGs nationwide, orders joint patrols to tackle insecurity

By Kingsley Omonobi

Inspector‑General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu has directed the deployment of Deputy Inspectors‑General of Police (DIGs) to all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen security operations and close operational gaps across the country.

The directive was issued on Tuesday during the Monthly Strategic Conference with senior police officers at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Disu said the deployment, effective from 15 June 2026, aims to improve supervision, coordination and accountability across police formations nationwide, while bringing leadership closer to field operations.

He also ordered the immediate nationwide enforcement of regulations against vehicles without registration plates or those with concealed, defaced or altered number plates, warning that such practices would no longer be tolerated.

The IGP stressed that the rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State remains a national security priority. He noted that the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are making progress in securing their safe return.

“We are making progress over efforts to rescue the abducted Oyo school children and teachers. The full operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force, in coordination with other security agencies, is fully committed to securing their safe return,” he said.

Disu highlighted operational gains recorded since the last strategic meeting, noting that 88 kidnapped victims were rescued and multiple arrests were made across various crime categories.

According to him, 29 suspected murderers, 65 armed robbery suspects and 55 kidnapping suspects were arrested during the period under review. He added that eight suspected terrorists were apprehended, while 42 cult‑related suspects were arrested. The operation also recovered 114 firearms, 843 rounds of ammunition and 28 stolen vehicles.

The IGP disclosed a recent intelligence‑led operation in the Federal Capital Territory, where five suspected kidnappers were arrested before they could execute planned attacks in Abuja. He described the operation as evidence of improved intelligence gathering and proactive policing strategies.

To further curb criminal activity, Disu ordered Commissioners of Police to establish coordinated “Handshake Patrols” between neighbouring states to prevent criminals from exploiting jurisdictional boundaries. He also directed enhanced surveillance along major entry and exit routes, improved intelligence sharing and joint operational responses where necessary.

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