The Nigeria Police Force has announced a leadership change in its public communication unit, appointing Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO).
Placid replaces Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin, who has been relieved of his duties as the police spokesperson in a move that is part of a wider restructuring at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The development was confirmed by senior police sources who said the changes are aimed at improving communication, strengthening media relations, and enhancing the way the police engage with the public.
As part of the restructuring, the police leadership also created a new department called the New Media Office. The office will focus on the force’s social media presence and digital communication.
Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ali Giwa has been appointed to lead the newly created office.
Police authorities say the move reflects the growing importance of digital communication in modern policing and the need for faster engagement with citizens, journalists, and stakeholders across the country.
ACP Benjamin Hundeyin had only recently assumed office as the Force Public Relations Officer. He was appointed to the role in September 2025.
His tenure lasted less than six months before the latest shake-up.
During his time as spokesperson, Hundeyin was responsible for communicating official police positions on major national security issues, crime investigations, and internal reforms within the force.
He also served as the main link between the police and the media, providing updates on crime prevention efforts, arrests, and security operations across the country.
Although no official reason has been given for his removal, the change is believed to be part of broader internal adjustments taking place in the police leadership.
The recent changes come shortly after the appointment of a new Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu.
The new police chief, Kayode Egbetokun Disu, was recently named the 23rd Inspector-General of Police, taking over the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force at a time when the country faces several security challenges.
These include armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism in some regions, and rising concerns about cybercrime and other digital threats.
Public communication has become increasingly important for law enforcement agencies, especially in a country like Nigeria where public trust in the police has faced challenges in recent years.
Many Nigerians now rely heavily on social media platforms for news and information, making it necessary for government institutions to respond quickly and clearly to issues affecting the public.
One of the major highlights of the restructuring is the creation of the New Media Office.
The office is expected to handle the police force’s social media accounts and digital engagement with Nigerians.
Officials say the goal is to provide faster responses to public concerns, correct misinformation, and share verified information about police activities.
CSP Ali Giwa, who will head the new office, is expected to lead a team responsible for managing the police presence on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and other online channels.
The police have in recent years increased their use of social media to share crime alerts, public safety messages, and updates on investigations.
Digital communication has also become a tool for receiving complaints from citizens and gathering information that may help law enforcement.
The new Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, brings nearly three decades of experience in the Nigeria Police Force.
He was born on December 2, 1970, in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. He is from Mbiokporo Nsit in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of the state.
Placid joined the Nigeria Police Academy in 1996 as a cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police.
He was formally enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on August 15, 1998.
Over the years, he has served in several operational and administrative positions within the police.
Placid is also known for his strong academic background.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo.
He later obtained a Master’s degree in Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos.
In addition, he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the National Open University of Nigeria.
His training and experience are expected to support his new role as the official voice of the Nigeria Police Force.
The position of Force Public Relations Officer is one of the most visible roles within the police hierarchy.
The spokesperson speaks on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police and communicates official policies, operational updates, and responses to national security issues.
The FPRO also manages relationships with journalists, media organizations, and the public.
In recent years, the role has become even more important because of the speed at which information spreads online.
A quick and clear response from the police can help prevent rumours and reduce panic during security incidents.
With the appointment of DCP Anthony Okon Placid and the creation of the New Media Office, the police leadership appears to be placing stronger highlights on communication.
