Police Council Holds Meeting and Confirms Egbetokun as Substantive IG

In a meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Police Council confirmed Olukayode Egbetokun as the 22nd indigenous Inspector-General of Police.

The Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, revealed this information to State House correspondents following the council’s meeting at the Aso Rock Villa.

Gaidam stated that Egbetokun’s confirmation was based on his satisfactory performance during the past three months since his appointment on June 19 and his decoration by Vice President Kashim Shettima a day later.

He explained, “We recently had a meeting with Mr. President of the National Police Council. The meeting focused on the confirmation of the Inspector General of Police as the substantive Inspector General of Police.”

“Egbetokun has been serving in an acting capacity since his appointment three months ago. Based on our records and observations of his work, we have determined that he is highly qualified for the role, given his extensive experience in the police and security sectors,” Gaidam added.

Gaidam further stated, “During my short tenure as Minister of Police Affairs, I have closely worked with him. I have found him to be honest, transparent, and hard-working. So, we consulted with Mr. President and recommended that he be confirmed as IGP. He has been duly confirmed.”

Gaidam noted that Egbetokun presented a blueprint for enhancing the country’s security, which demonstrates his suitability for the position.

As a result of the IGP’s presentation, President Tinubu established a special committee to assess the deficiencies in the 1999 constitution and strengthen police coordination, technology, and manpower resources.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, informed State House correspondents that Egbetokun’s confirmation led to extended discussions on the Nigeria Police Force.

Mohammed said, “The confirmation of the IGP prompted further discussion on the Nigeria Police Force, and the President has formed a special committee to examine all gaps in the 1999 Constitution with the aim of bringing harmony and synergy, addressing technological and manpower needs in the Nigeria Police Force.

The new committee consists of the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Solomon Arase, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, explained the rationale behind the committee’s formation, citing the lack of meaningful reforms in the Nigerian Police Force since its establishment in 1861.

Abiodun mentioned the IGP’s presentation at the council meeting and the urgent need for reforms. He said, “We have observed that there have been no meaningful reforms since the establishment of the Nigerian Police Force. He addressed us on the state of policing in Nigeria and highlighted the need for technology-driven policing.

“He emphasized the need for community-based policing and sufficient budgetary provisions for it, as it has proven to be very effective. The IGP also stressed the importance of professionalism among police officers and encouraged them to adhere to certain qualities to ensure professionalism.”

Abiodun mentioned that the newly-confirmed police chief emphasized the need for adequate funding. He stated that the “committee of four to five” will focus on these reform issues and develop ideas that will characterize the new Nigeria Police Force.