Nigeria has a new Acting Inspector-General of Police in Tunji Disu, a career officer whose steady rise through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force spans more than three decades of operational, intelligence and administrative leadership.
His appointment follows the replacement of Kayode Egbetokun, with presidency sources confirming that Disu will immediately assume leadership of the Force.
From Lagos Roots to National Leadership
Born on April 13, 1966, on Lagos Island, Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on the 18th of May 1992. Over the years, he built a reputation as a hands-on field officer, serving as Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ago Iwoye (Ogun State), Ikare and Owo (Ondo State), and later in Elimbu and Elelenwo in Rivers State.
His early career included commanding roles in the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and anti-kidnapping units across Ondo, Oyo and Rivers states. He also served as second-in-command of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Rivers State, sharpening his investigative credentials.
He also served as the Commander of the Nigerian Police Delegation to the African Union (AU) Peacekeeping Mission in the Sudanese region of Darfur. The international exposure broadened his operational outlook and leadership experience.
Disu gained national visibility as Commander of the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) from 2015 to 2021.
Intelligence and Strategic Roles
In August 2021, Disu was appointed head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), a sensitive unit previously led by Abba Kyari. He later served as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations at Force Headquarters, Abuja, before rising to Commissioner of Police and subsequently Assistant Inspector-General (AIG).
Strong Academic and Professional Foundation
Disu’s rise has been underpinned by a solid academic background. A graduate of English Education from Lagos State University, he also holds a postgraduate diploma in International Relations and Strategic Studies, as well as two master’s degrees — one in Public Administration from Adekunle Ajasin University and another in Criminology, Security and Legal Psychology from Lagos State University.
His professional training includes courses in small arms smuggling in Botswana, internet fraud investigations at the University of Cambridge, strategic leadership at the Police Staff College in Jos, and forensic and criminal intelligence training at the University of Lagos. He is also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
The Road Ahead
Disu takes over at a critical time for the Nigeria Police Force, amid public demand for reforms, improved security and stronger accountability. With experience spanning field operations, intelligence, international peacekeeping and community policing, expectations are high that he will bring both strategic insight and operational discipline to the role.
As he steps into the office of Inspector-General, attention now turns to how he will shape the next chapter of policing in Nigeria — and whether his track record of reform-minded leadership will translate into nationwide transformation.
Melissa Enoch
