The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has initiated a significant shake-up within the Nigerian Police Force by approving the deployment of 38 senior officers to various State Commands and Police Formations across the country. This move, which includes nine Commissioners of Police (CPs) to different state commands and 29 CPs to various police formations, is aimed at addressing the country’s growing security challenges and improving the overall efficiency of policing nationwide.
In a statement released on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP explained that this reshuffling of senior officers is part of broader efforts to strengthen operational efficiency, enhance intelligence-led policing, and ensure a more community-focused approach to law enforcement. The new postings are expected to bolster the country’s fight against rising security threats, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping.
As part of the deployment, nine new CPs have been assigned to oversee police operations in various states across Nigeria. Among the officers assigned to state commands are:
- CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba (Zamfara)
- CP Bretet Emmanuel Simon (Taraba)
- CP Christopher Ado Emmanuel (Yobe)
- CP Olusegun Eyitayo Omosayin (Cross River)
- CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman (Niger)
- CP Sani Omolori Aliyu (Bauchi)
- CP Bello Shehu (Katsina)
- CP Saka Adewale Ajao (Federal Capital Territory)
- CP Ojo Adekimi (Kwara)
These appointments reflect the strategic importance of each state in the ongoing security situation. Zamfara, Katsina, and Bauchi, for example, have been hotspots for banditry, while Yobe and Taraba have faced security challenges related to insurgent groups. The appointments of these experienced officers are seen as a direct response to the need for stronger leadership in these states.
In addition to the state appointments, 29 other CPs have been posted to various police formations across the country. These formations are key to maintaining law and order in specific operational areas, ranging from anti-kidnapping units to special task forces dealing with insurgency and terrorism.
In his statement, the Force spokesman emphasized the importance of intelligence-led policing in the fight against Nigeria’s security challenges. Adejobi noted that each of the newly appointed CPs is expected to implement strategies tailored to the unique needs of their respective commands and formations. The goal is to ensure that policing is not only reactive but proactive, with a strong focus on gathering and utilizing intelligence to prevent crimes before they occur.
The IGP’s directive to the newly deployed officers also includes a strict emphasis on professionalism, urging them to uphold the highest ethical standards in their duties. Egbetokun, who has been at the helm of the police force since his appointment, has consistently pushed for reforms that prioritize both efficiency and integrity within the force.
The reshuffling of top police officers comes at a time when Nigeria faces numerous security threats. In the northern parts of the country, banditry remains a significant problem, with armed criminal groups terrorizing rural communities. The southwestern and southeastern regions have been grappling with issues of kidnappings for ransom, while the southeastern states also face challenges related to insurgent groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The central region, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is also experiencing an increase in violent crimes such as robberies, and armed assaults. As the security situation continues to evolve, the IGP’s decision to deploy officers with proven track records in tackling crime is expected to bring new momentum to the ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
The Nigerian Police Force has long faced criticism over issues of corruption, brutality, and inefficiency. While there have been several reform initiatives aimed at improving the force, such as the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in late 2020, many Nigerians continue to question the effectiveness of the force in securing the country.
The recent reshuffle is seen as part of a broader strategy by the IGP to restore public confidence in the police. By appointing officers with fresh perspectives and a clear mandate for intelligence-driven operations, the police leadership hopes to address longstanding concerns regarding the force’s responsiveness and accountability.
The IGP has also emphasized that the newly deployed CPs must focus on community-oriented policing. This involves engaging with local populations to understand their security needs and ensuring that policing methods are tailored to specific community challenges. Such an approach is intended to make the police more accessible to the people they serve and build stronger relationships with local communities, which is essential for effective crime prevention.
Despite the optimism surrounding these new appointments, the task ahead for the newly deployed CPs is far from easy. Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and multifaceted, requiring not only strong leadership but also a collaborative approach involving other security agencies, the government, and local communities.
In addition, the police force faces resource constraints that hinder its effectiveness. From inadequate equipment to understaffing, the challenges are significant. However, the IGP’s emphasis on intelligence-driven policing may help mitigate some of these issues, allowing officers to prioritize their efforts on high-risk areas and high-priority targets.
