The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered the deployment of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to their respective geopolitical zones as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security operations across Nigeria.
The move, according to the police chief, is aimed at improving operational coordination, enhancing intelligence-led policing, and ensuring more effective responses to terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other forms of violent crime.
He made the announcement during a strategic conference with senior police officers in Abuja, explaining that the deployment would bring top leadership closer to field operations and improve accountability within the force.
Disu noted that the DIGs will work closely with Assistant Inspectors-General and Commissioners of Police in their zones to ensure directives are properly implemented and security outcomes are measurable.
He stressed that the initiative is not ceremonial, but a deliberate strategy to strengthen supervision, improve response time, and ensure swift action against emerging threats.
As part of the reforms, the IGP also directed Commissioners of Police to establish cross-border “Handshake Patrols” with neighbouring states to prevent criminals from exploiting jurisdictional boundaries to escape arrest.
He explained that coordinated patrols, joint planning, and stronger intelligence-sharing mechanisms are necessary to improve security along inter-state routes and reduce criminal mobility.
On ongoing security operations, the police chief assured Nigerians that efforts are intensifying to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State, stating that the full operational capacity of the force, alongside other security agencies, has been deployed.
He added that progress is being made and reaffirmed the commitment of security agencies to ensure the safe return of all victims.
The IGP also highlighted recent successes, including the rescue of a woman and her twin sons abducted in Oyo State, describing it as evidence of the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and coordinated operations.
He reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to restoring public confidence and improving national security through sustained and proactive measures.
