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New Nigerian Police Chief Appointed Amid Security Concerns

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 14:58 GMT by legit
      Locales: Federal Capital Territory, Lagos, NIGERIA

Abuja, Nigeria - February 24, 2026 - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today announced the appointment of Olukayode Egbetokun as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP), marking the end of Usman Alkali Baba's tenure and ushering in a new era for the Nigeria Police Force. The announcement, made by the President's Special Adviser on Media, Ajuri Ngelale, on Monday, signals a clear intent from the Tinubu administration to prioritize national security and implement substantial reforms within the police force.

Egbetokun, a seasoned police officer with over 30 years of experience, ascends to the position of IGP from his role as a Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG). His appointment comes at a critical juncture for Nigeria, a nation grappling with multifaceted security challenges ranging from banditry and insurgency in the North to rising crime rates in urban centers and persistent concerns regarding police brutality and accountability.

While the official details of Egbetokun's specific agenda remain forthcoming, analysts suggest that his appointment is intrinsically linked to President Tinubu's broader commitment to restructuring and modernizing Nigeria's security architecture. Baba's tenure, while marked by efforts to improve community policing and address logistical shortcomings, was often overshadowed by accusations of human rights abuses and a perceived lack of responsiveness to public concerns. Egbetokun is expected to address these issues head-on.

A Focus on Reform and Accountability

Sources within the presidency indicate that Tinubu has tasked the new IGP with implementing a comprehensive reform plan focusing on several key areas. These include enhanced training programs for police personnel, emphasizing de-escalation techniques, human rights law, and ethical conduct. A significant portion of the reform is expected to center around improved oversight mechanisms and accountability protocols, aiming to reduce incidents of police brutality and ensure swift and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct.

The previous administration faced relentless criticism regarding the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), culminating in widespread protests in 2020. While SARS was officially disbanded, concerns about similar units and the overall culture within the police force persist. Egbetokun will be under immense pressure to demonstrate a genuine commitment to preventing the re-emergence of abusive practices.

Technological Advancement and Intelligence Gathering

Beyond reform and accountability, the Tinubu administration is also prioritizing the integration of technology into policing strategies. This includes investing in modern surveillance equipment, forensic laboratories, and a robust data analytics platform to improve intelligence gathering and crime prevention. Egbetokun, known within the force as a proponent of technology-driven policing, is expected to champion these initiatives. The goal is to move away from reactive policing towards a proactive, intelligence-led approach that anticipates and prevents criminal activity.

Addressing Regional Security Challenges

The new IGP will also be tasked with addressing the diverse security challenges facing different regions of Nigeria. In the North-East, the fight against Boko Haram and its affiliates continues, requiring a nuanced strategy that combines military operations with community engagement and rehabilitation programs. In the North-West, banditry and kidnapping remain rampant, necessitating increased security presence and collaborative efforts with local communities. In the South, issues such as oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and communal conflicts demand targeted interventions.

Stakeholder Expectations

The appointment of Egbetokun has been met with cautious optimism from civil society organizations and human rights groups. While welcoming the change in leadership, these groups have emphasized the need for tangible reforms and concrete actions to address systemic issues within the police force. They are calling for greater transparency, independent oversight mechanisms, and meaningful engagement with communities to build trust and accountability.

"The appointment of a new IGP is an opportunity to reset the relationship between the police and the public," stated Aisha Mohammed, director of the Civil Liberties Advocacy Network. "We urge the new IGP to prioritize the protection of citizens' rights and to hold accountable those who abuse their power."

With the nation's eyes firmly fixed on the Nigeria Police Force, Olukayode Egbetokun faces a daunting but crucial task: to rebuild public trust, restore the integrity of the force, and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.