President Tinubu Approves Appointment of Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, as the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) following the resignation of former police chief, Kayode Egbetokun.

The major development was confirmed in a statement released by the Presidency, sparking widespread reactions across Nigeria’s political and security landscape.

According to reports, Egbetokun resigned from office citing “pressing family considerations,” paving the way for Disu’s immediate appointment as the new acting head of the Nigeria Police Force.

Tinubu Explains Why Disu Was Appointed

The Presidency stated that Tinubu approved the appointment in view of the growing security challenges confronting the country and in line with relevant laws guiding police leadership appointments.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga also disclosed that the Nigeria Police Council would formally consider Disu’s appointment before forwarding his name to the Senate for confirmation as substantive Inspector-General of Police.

This newspaper understands that President Tinubu announced Disu’s appointment following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun as IGP.

The Nigerian President disclosed the appointment in a statement signed by him, which was published on the micro-blogging site, X formerly known as Twitter, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

Tinubu said: “I have accepted the resignation of the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, following his letter citing pressing family considerations.

“I thank him for his decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and our nation. His dedication, professionalism and commitment to strengthening our internal security architecture are deeply appreciated.

“In view of the current security challenges and in accordance with extant laws, I have approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector General of Police with immediate effect.

“I am confident that his experience, operational depth and leadership capacity will provide steady direction for the Force at this critical time.

“In line with the Police Act 2020, I will convene the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider his appointment as substantive Inspector General of Police before transmitting his name to the Senate for confirmation.

“Our administration remains unwavering in its commitment to strengthening national security and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force is professional, accountable and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities,” the statement added.

I have accepted the resignation of the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, following his letter citing pressing family considerations.

I thank him for his decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and our nation. His dedication, professionalism…

— Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) February 24, 2026

Who Is Tunji Disu?

Tunji Disu is one of Nigeria’s most experienced senior police officers, having served in several strategic positions within the Nigeria Police Force over the years.

Before his latest appointment, he served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Lagos. He also previously worked as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and later headed the Federal Capital Territory Police Command.

Disu gained national recognition during his time as Commander of the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS), where he was widely praised for anti-crime operations and policing reforms.

Tinubu Praises Disu’s Record

During the official decoration ceremony at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed confidence in Disu’s leadership ability and professional track record.

The President reportedly referenced Disu’s performance in Lagos and commended his dedication to duty over the years.

In his response, Disu promised to focus on professionalism, accountability, and modernization within the Nigeria Police Force.

Reactions Trail Appointment

The appointment has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians, with many security analysts describing Disu as a highly experienced officer capable of handling Nigeria’s current security challenges.

Several governors and political leaders also reportedly endorsed his appointment during the Police Council meeting that later confirmed his position.

However, some critics have raised concerns over possible changes within the police hierarchy following the transition in leadership.

Nigeria Police Force Under New Leadership

The Nigeria Police Force remains Nigeria’s primary law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining internal security nationwide.

With rising concerns over insecurity, kidnapping, cybercrime, and violent attacks across parts of the country, many Nigerians are expected to closely monitor Disu’s next steps as acting IGP.

Security observers believe his leadership style and operational experience could play a key role in shaping policing reforms and national security strategies in the coming months.