The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions, security agencies and local communities as part of efforts to promote peace, security and sustainable development across the country.
The police chief made the call on Monday during a working visit to Jigawa State, where he met with Governor Umar Namadi, attended the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Dutse, and addressed officers and men of the Jigawa State Police Command.
During the meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, IGP Disu commended the council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its sustained contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution and national unity.
According to him, traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in the country’s security architecture because of their proximity to the grassroots and their influence within local communities.
He noted that traditional institutions play crucial roles in intelligence gathering, mediation of communal disputes, early warning systems and community engagement, stressing that closer cooperation between security agencies and traditional rulers would significantly strengthen efforts to combat insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
“The role of traditional rulers in promoting peaceful coexistence and supporting security operations cannot be overstated. Their contributions remain critical to achieving lasting peace and development across our communities,” the Inspector-General said.
IGP Disu also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi, where he reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to working closely with the Jigawa State Government and other stakeholders to improve public safety and strengthen community policing initiatives throughout the state.
He emphasized that effective security management requires the collective efforts of government institutions, community leaders and citizens, adding that the police would continue to deepen partnerships aimed at preventing crime and maintaining law and order.
Addressing officers and men of the Jigawa State Police Command, the Inspector-General expressed appreciation for their dedication and sacrifices in maintaining peace and security in the state.
He assured personnel that the leadership of the Force remains committed to improving operational effectiveness, enhancing personnel welfare, expanding career development opportunities and strengthening service delivery across the country.
The police chief used the occasion to address growing concerns among officers regarding ongoing discussions on the proposed establishment of state police.
He assured personnel that the reform process should not be viewed as a threat to their careers or welfare, explaining that the initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s policing framework while preserving a robust national policing institution capable of addressing interstate and national security challenges.
According to him, the proposed reforms are intended to improve efficiency and responsiveness in policing without compromising the rights, welfare or professional interests of serving officers.
“There is no cause for anxiety. The welfare, career progression, pensions and other legitimate benefits of police personnel will remain protected throughout any transition process,” he assured.
IGP Disu further urged officers to remain professional, disciplined and committed to their constitutional responsibilities.
He reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, extortion, abuse of office and other forms of misconduct, warning that unethical practices would not be tolerated under his leadership.
The Inspector-General also encouraged officers to strengthen community engagement efforts, embrace intelligence-led policing strategies and uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability and respect for human rights.
He stressed that public confidence remains essential to effective policing and called on personnel to conduct themselves in a manner that would continue to earn the trust and cooperation of the communities they serve.
The visit forms part of the Inspector-General’s ongoing engagements with stakeholders across the country aimed at strengthening security partnerships, improving police-community relations and advancing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.
The Force leadership reiterated its commitment to enhancing public trust, improving operational capacity and working closely with governments, traditional institutions, communities and other stakeholders in promoting peace, security and national development.
