By Uloma Peace Okorie
In a decisive move aimed at strengthening security operations and enhancing accountability within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has ordered all Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to relocate to their designated operational zones across the country with effect from June 15.
The directive, announced during a conference with Strategic Police Managers in Abuja, has been widely viewed as a bold step towards bringing police leadership closer to the people and the realities of policing on the ground.
Speaking on the deployment, IGP Disu stressed that the era of remote supervision of critical security operations must give way to hands-on leadership and direct engagement with field commanders.
According to him, the deployment is designed to strengthen operational coordination, improve supervision, deepen accountability, and ensure prompt response to emerging security threats across the country.
“This deployment is not ceremonial. It is intended to bring leadership closer to the field, improve response mechanisms, and ensure that emergency reports receive prompt attention,” the IGP declared.
The directive requires the DIGs to work closely with Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police in their respective zones, providing strategic oversight and ensuring that operational directives are effectively implemented.
Security stakeholders have described the initiative as one of the most significant administrative reforms introduced by the current police leadership. They noted that by positioning senior officers closer to operational theatres, the Force will be better equipped to tackle insecurity, improve intelligence gathering, and strengthen coordination among commands.
Observers say the move reflects IGP Disu’s commitment to practical policing and his determination to ensure that senior officers take greater responsibility for security outcomes in their jurisdictions.
Since assuming office, the IGP has consistently emphasized professionalism, accountability, and operational efficiency as key pillars of his administration. The latest deployment, analysts say, demonstrates his resolve to translate those principles into measurable action.
With Nigeria facing complex security challenges in several regions, many believe the relocation of the DIGs will significantly improve command and control structures, speed up decision-making processes, and enhance the effectiveness of police operations nationwide.
The initiative has also been welcomed by members of the public who see it as a clear indication that the police leadership is prepared to move beyond boardroom discussions and engage directly with security realities in the field.
As the June 15 implementation date approaches, expectations are high that the deployment will strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force and further advance IGP Disu’s vision of a more responsive, efficient, and people-oriented policing system.
For many Nigerians, the directive sends a strong message that under IGP Olatunji Disu, leadership must be visible, accountable, and present where security challenges exist—not confined to offices in Abuja.