The Olatunji Rilwan Disu on Monday decorated newly promoted Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) during a ceremony held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peace Keeping Hall at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the police chief urged the senior officers to remain committed to professionalism, discipline, fairness, transparency, and dedicated service to the nation as they assume their new responsibilities.
According to him, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant occasion the decoration ceremony of our distinguished senior officers who have been elevated to the prestigious rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police.”
The IGP explained that the ceremony symbolised more than the conferment of new ranks, describing it as recognition of years of dedication and service within the police force.
“This ceremony represents far more than the adornment of new insignia.” Stating that, “It is a solemn recognition of decades of dedicated service, professional excellence, and unwavering commitment to the ideals and responsibilities of policing in our country.
“It is also a moment that marks the assumption of even greater responsibilities in the leadership and strategic management of the Nigeria Police Force.”
He further reminded the officers that attaining the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police represents one of the highest levels of professional trust within the institution.
He added that the promotion comes with expectations of wisdom, integrity, courage, and a strong commitment to justice and service.
The police boss noted that as part of the top strategic leadership of the force, the newly decorated DIGs are now expected to play key roles beyond operational duties.
In his words , “You are expected to provide institutional direction, strengthen internal discipline, drive reforms, and ensure that our policing strategies remain responsive to the evolving security landscape of our nation.
“The security environment in which we operate continues to evolve in complexity. From organized crime and cyber-enabled threats to violent criminal networks and emerging security challenges, the expectations placed on the Nigeria Police Force have never been greater.
“It is therefore imperative that our leadership remains forward-looking, strategic, and firmly committed to professionalism and operational excellence.
“In this regard, I charge you to bring to bear your vast experience in strengthening intelligence-led policing, deepening inter-agency cooperation, enhancing operational coordination across commands, and reinforcing accountability within the ranks.
“Your leadership must inspire confidence within the Force and trust among the citizens we are sworn to protect. Let your tenure at this level be defined by discipline, fairness, transparency, and service.
“The rank you wear today places you as custodians of the institutional values of the Nigeria Police Force, Your actions, decisions, and leadership style will continue to shape the culture, direction, and public perception of our organisation.
“As we continue our collective efforts to reposition the Nigeria Police Force into a more professional, technologically driven, and citizen-focused institution, your roles as Deputy Inspectors-General of Police will be critical in driving this transformation and strengthening our capacity to effectively secure the nation.”
The IGP also expressed the appreciation of the police force to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support toward strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigeria Police as part of broader national security efforts.
Addressing the newly promoted officers, he congratulated them on their elevation and expressed confidence in their ability to justify the trust placed in them.
“I have every confidence that you will justify the trust reposed in you and continue to contribute meaningfully to the advancement, stability, and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force.
“Let me conclude by reminding us all that the strength of any police institution lies not merely in its authority, but in the integrity, discipline, and sense of duty of those entrusted with its leadership.
“As Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, you must remain steadfast in upholding the core values of professionalism, accountability, and service to the Nigerian people. The responsibilities that come with this rank require courage in decision-making, fairness in leadership, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
“I therefore urge you to see this elevation not only as recognition of your past service, but as a renewed call to national duty. Lead with honour, serve with integrity, and continue to work collectively towards building a Nigeria Police Force that is respected, trusted, and capable of meeting the security aspirations of our nation,” he said.
The newly promoted DIGs include Zachariah Fera Achinyan, Zango Ibrahim Baba, Isyaku Mohammed, Margaret Agebe Ochalla, Mohammed Abdul Sulaiman, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha, and Umar Shehu Nadada.
The IGP, the newly decorated DIGs, and the Force Secretary, Olabode Adeleye Akinbamilowo, now form the new Force Management Team.
Among dignitaries present at the event were Kabir Alhassan Rurum, Chairman of the House Committee on Airforce; Temitope Ilori; former Head of Civil Service Danladi Kefas; former Chairman of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Jide Adeniji; Kogi State Commissioner Muhammed Abdulmutalik; the Zazzau of Zaria; Arese Arase; former Department of State Services spokesperson Marilyn Ogar; and retired senior officers including Austin Iwar and Alobi.
