President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday officially decorated Tunji Disu with the rank of acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) during a ceremony at the Presidential Villa. The appointment follows the resignation of the former IGP, Kayode Egbetokun.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume.
Acting IGP Disu, a veteran officer with over three decades of service, assumes leadership at a pivotal moment. While he was scheduled for retirement in April 2026 upon reaching age 60, the amended Police Act may allow him to serve a full four-year tenure, potentially extending his leadership until 2030.
President Tinubu praised the outgoing IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, for his dedicated service to the nation. Egbetokun’s resignation, which he attributed to personal family matters requiring his full attention, was accepted by the President earlier this week.
In accordance with the Constitution, Disu will serve in an acting capacity pending a formal meeting of the Nigeria Police Council.
“President Tinubu will convene the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment,” stated Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. “Following this, the name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation.”
The transition is expected to trigger a traditional reshuffling within the Force. Per police custom, senior officers including approximately nine Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and several Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) may retire to pave the way for the new leadership.
Acting IGP Disu brings a decorated and diverse portfolio to the office:
Renowned Leadership: Former Commander of the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS), where he rebranded the unit as “The Good Guys” and earned international awards for anti-crime excellence.
Intelligence & Operations: Former head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and Commissioner of Police in both Rivers State and the FCT.
International Experience: Led Nigeria’s first police contingent to the African Union Mission in Sudan (Darfur).
Academic Excellence: Holds Master’s degrees in Public Administration and Criminology, with specialized training from the University of Cambridge and forensic institutes.
Community Relations: Notable for his compassionate approach during the 2020 protests, where he provided medical aid to those in need.
Beyond his professional career, Disu is a celebrated Judoka (Third-dan Black Belt) and a silver medalist at the 2022 U.S. Open Judo Championship.
Acting IGP Disu is expected to formally assume office at the Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, on Wednesday, following a formal handover ceremony and parade.
