Amanze Chinonye
President Bola Tinubu on February 24, 2026, appointed Tunji Disu as the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun.
The appointment, coming less than a year after Disu’s promotion to Assistant Inspector-General of Police, marks the rise of a seasoned officer whose career has spanned more than three decades of service in Nigeria’s law enforcement.
A Career Built on Dedication
Born on April 13, 1966, Tunji Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992. Over 34 years of service, he has steadily climbed the ranks, gaining experience across operational and administrative roles. Known for his strategic thinking and disciplined leadership, Disu has earned respect within the force and among security experts nationwide.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn March 2025, Disu was elevated to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General, positioning him among the top leadership in the police hierarchy. Less than a year later, he assumed the nation’s highest police office, a role demanding both vision and resilience amid Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
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Timing and Tenure: Breaking the Retirement Barrier
Disu’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture in his career. Under Nigeria Police regulations, officers are required to retire upon reaching 60 years of age or completing 35 years of service, whichever comes first. At the time of his appointment, Disu was just 48 days away from mandatory retirement.
However, amendments to the Police Act now allow Inspectors-General of Police to serve a full four-year tenure, regardless of age or prior service.
This means Disu is expected to lead the force until 2030, unless he resigns or is removed by the President. His predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun, experienced a similar situation: appointed IGP in June 2023 at age 58, Egbetokun could have served until October 2027 but chose to resign in February 2026.
The Road Ahead
As Acting IGP, Disu steps into a role that requires navigating Nigeria’s pressing security challenges while driving reform within the police. His leadership will be central to maintaining public trust, enforcing accountability, and shaping the future of law enforcement in the country.
Tunji Disu’s journey from a young cadet in 1992 to the helm of Nigeria’s police force is a story of perseverance, professionalism, and dedication. His appointment is more than a career milestone, it is a defining moment for the Nigeria Police Force, signaling continuity, experience, and a commitment to tackling the nation’s evolving security demands.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
