IGP Urges Greater Role for Traditional Rulers in National Security
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions, security agencies and local communities to enhance peace, security and development across the country, while assuring police personnel that proposed policing reforms, including discussions on State Police, will not jeopardize their welfare or career progression.
Disu made the call on Monday during a working visit to Jigawa State, where he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi, attended the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) in Dutse and addressed officers and men of the Jigawa State Police Command.
Speaking at the meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, the IGP commended the council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its contributions to peacebuilding, dialogue and national unity.
He emphasized the strategic role of traditional rulers in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, community engagement and early warning mechanisms, noting that effective collaboration between traditional institutions and security agencies remains critical to tackling insecurity and fostering sustainable development across Northern Nigeria.
According to him, traditional leaders occupy a unique position within their communities and can significantly support efforts aimed at strengthening security and maintaining social cohesion.
During his visit to Governor Umar Namadi, the police chief reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to working closely with the Jigawa State Government and other stakeholders to enhance public safety and deepen community policing initiatives across the state.
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Addressing officers and men of the Jigawa State Police Command, Disu praised their dedication and professionalism in maintaining law and order, assuring them of the Force leadership’s commitment to improving operational effectiveness, personnel welfare, career development and service delivery.
The Inspector-General also addressed concerns surrounding ongoing debates on the proposed establishment of State Police, urging officers not to be apprehensive about the reform process.
He explained that the initiative is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s policing framework while retaining a robust national police institution capable of addressing interstate crimes and broader national security challenges.
Disu assured officers that their welfare, career advancement opportunities, pensions and other legitimate entitlements would remain protected under any future policing arrangement.
“There is no cause for anxiety,” he said, stressing that ongoing discussions are intended to improve security delivery rather than undermine the interests of serving personnel.
The IGP further urged officers to remain disciplined, professional and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, warning that the Force would continue to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, extortion, abuse of office and other forms of misconduct.
He also encouraged personnel to strengthen community engagement efforts, embrace intelligence-led policing strategies and uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability and respect for human rights.
Disu reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening public trust, improving operational efficiency and working with governments, traditional institutions, communities and other stakeholders to promote peace, security and national development.
By PRNigeria
