President Bola Tinubu has formally sworn in Tunji Disu as the 23rd Inspector General of Police, marking a major leadership shift in Nigeria’s policing landscape at the State House in Abuja.
The inauguration took place on Wednesday at the Council Chambers just before the Federal Executive Council session, with key questions about national security, protest risks and the future of policing dominating discussions following the ceremony.
During the event, Tinubu also administered oaths of office to six commissioners for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission and two for the Federal Civil Service Commission, drawing ministers and senior officials to the capital.
In attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Head of the Civil Service Esther Walson‑Jack, among others.
After the swearing in, Disu spoke with State House correspondents about looming security challenges. He assured that “the police is aware of the various groups and sects in Nigeria and their potential external influences” and said the force has bolstered patrols nationwide.
On professional conduct, Disu stressed that increased vigilance would be matched with discipline, insisting officers must not “act professionally without taking laws into their own hands.”
Addressing the long debated idea of state police in Nigeria, he stated that the reform “has come to stay” and framed it as a partnership rather than a threat, dismissing concerns it might weaken the federal force.
Disu’s elevation follows his appointment as acting IGP on February 24, after Kayode Egbetokun resigned, and was later confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council on March 2.
