IGP Deploys DIGs Nationwide, Orders Massive Interstate Patrols

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed the deployment of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to their respective zones beginning June 15 as part of a broad strategy to strengthen security operations and improve policing across the country.

According to Ireporter Online, the directive was issued on Tuesday in Abuja during a conference with Strategic Police Managers, which brought together officers from the rank of Commissioners of Police and above.

Disu explained that the deployment is designed to enhance supervision, improve operational coordination, strengthen accountability, and provide strategic oversight of policing activities in the various zones. He noted that the DIGs would work closely with Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) to ensure that directives are effectively implemented and measurable results are achieved.

The police chief stressed that the assignment goes beyond a ceremonial role, emphasizing that senior officers are expected to move closer to operational areas, improve response mechanisms, and ensure that emergency reports receive swift attention.

As part of measures to tackle cross-border crimes, Disu also directed Commissioners of Police to immediately establish coordinated “handshake” patrols with neighbouring states. The initiative is aimed at preventing criminals from exploiting state boundaries to evade arrest after committing offences.

He instructed CPs to organize joint patrols along major entry and exit routes while strengthening intelligence-sharing systems and maintaining open communication channels for rapid joint responses whenever necessary. He further urged police commissioners to maintain regular contact with their counterparts in adjoining states and periodically review security deployments.

The Inspector-General emphasized that security challenges should be approached from a regional perspective rather than being confined to territorial boundaries, urging greater collaboration among police commands, particularly in areas facing similar threats.

Disu also called for a more professional and constructive relationship with the media, noting that public perception plays a significant role in building confidence in the Nigeria Police Force and influencing operational effectiveness. He encouraged police leaders to go beyond announcing arrests by providing timely clarifications and accurate information to the public.

According to the police chief, the force must not allow criminals or individuals seeking to undermine public confidence to dominate the information space, adding that proactive communication remains essential to effective policing.

He further highlighted the importance of strengthening community policing, insisting that the Nigeria Police Force cannot effectively secure the country without the active participation and partnership of citizens. Disu described community policing as a practical security philosophy that thrives on genuine collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, rather than merely a slogan.