The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the immediate withdrawal of Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel from unauthorized deployments.
The directive, which was unveiled during a conference with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Tuesday, is geared towards the
reorganization of the PMF as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and enhance operational readiness.
During the meeting, while expressing concern over the diversion of PMF personnel to non-core roles, including escort and guard duties for private individuals and VIPs, a trend which has undermined the unit’s effectiveness, Egbetokun emphasized the need to reposition the PMF in line with its original mandate as the Nigeria Police Force’s elite strike unit, designed to respond swiftly to riots, emergencies, and violent threats.
In addition the withdrawal of PMF personnel to unauthorized deployments, the IGP emplaced regular quarterly training focused on ethics and professionalism, and mandatory standby of fully equipped, combat-ready units across all Squadrons for rapid tactical support.
He also declared that PMF Commanders will be held accountable for the conduct of their personnel and urged them to lead proactively through regular training, inspections, and mentorship aimed at upholding discipline, respect for human rights, and operational excellence.
Reaffirming the Force’s commitment to restoring the PMF to its rightful role as a disciplined and dependable tactical arm, the IGP highlighted plans to introduce new leadership strategies and capacity-building initiatives designed to meet modern security challenges and align with global best practices.
The Inspector-General of Police while extending appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, for his support, acknowledged the critical contributions of the Force’s international partners in enhancing training and technical capacity.
He charged all PMF Squadron Commanders to embrace the reform as a professional and moral responsibility, reiterating that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to its mandate of safeguarding lives, property, and national security.
