Security: IGP Calls For Stronger Collaboration With Traditional Rulers
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions, security agencies and local communities to tackle insecurity.
This is even as he assured police personnel that ongoing policing reforms, including discussions on state police, will not jeopardise their careers, welfare or benefits.
The IGP gave the assurance on Monday during a working visit to Jigawa State, where he paid a courtesy call on 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 NTRC meeting, IGP Disu commended the Council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its role in fostering dialogue, peaceful coexistence and national unity.
He highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, community engagement and early warning systems, stressing that closer cooperation between traditional institutions and security agencies remains crucial to addressing security challenges across Northern Nigeria.
During his meeting with Governor Namadi, the police chief reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to partnering with the Jigawa State Government and other stakeholders to strengthen security, public safety and community policing initiatives in the state.
Addressing officers and men of the command, Disu commended their professionalism and dedication to duty, assuring them that the Force leadership remains focused on enhancing operational capacity, personnel welfare, career development and service delivery.
He also addressed concerns over proposals for state police, urging officers not to be apprehensive. According to him, the proposed reform is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s overall policing architecture while retaining a robust national police institution capable of responding to interstate and national security threats.
The Inspector-General assured personnel that their welfare, career progression, pensions and other legitimate entitlements would remain protected under any future policing arrangement.
He further urged officers to remain disciplined and professional, 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 embrace intelligence-led policing, deepen community engagement and uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for human rights.
The IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to building public trust, improving operational effectiveness and working closely with governments, traditional institutions and communities to promote peace, security and national development.
