The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has outlined measures being implemented by the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen community protection, professional policing and security cooperation with the United States.
Disu represented the Nigeria Police Force at the second United States-Nigeria Country of Particular Concern Joint Working Group meeting held in Washington, D.C., on August 12, 2026.
The meeting brought together a high-level Nigerian delegation, including the National Security Adviser, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Defence, Service Chiefs, as well as heads of other security and law enforcement agencies.
Participants reviewed progress made under the Joint Working Group Roadmap between April and June 2026 and considered areas where bilateral security cooperation could be further strengthened.
While presenting the Police Force’s contributions, Disu highlighted ongoing counter-kidnapping and anti-banditry operations, increased police deployment to vulnerable communities and the use of early-warning mechanisms to prevent threats.
He also outlined measures aimed at protecting internally displaced persons and supporting their safe return to their communities.
According to the IGP, personnel from specialised police formations were deployed to vulnerable local government areas during the reporting period to reinforce security and prevent violent extremist and criminal groups from gaining ground.
Disu also disclosed that the recruitment process for 50,000 police constables was progressing towards the final stage before training.
He said preparations were being made for comprehensive training based on an enhanced curriculum incorporating international best practices.
The IGP further stressed the importance of community-based policing, noting that the Force has continued to engage traditional rulers, religious leaders and other community stakeholders to build public confidence and promote peaceful coexistence.
He reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to conducting investigations within the law, protecting civilians, respecting human rights and upholding due process.
Disu said these measures remained central to the Police Force’s contribution to Nigeria’s wider counterterrorism, criminal justice and rule-of-law efforts.
The IGP assured participants that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to support the Joint Working Group Roadmap through improved professional standards, stronger investigative capacity, community protection and closer cooperation with relevant national and international partners.
