By MUHAMMAD DANBABA
Full List: DIGs Likely to Retire Following Tunji Disu’s Appointment as Acting IGP
President Bola Tinubu has appointed AIG Tunji Disu as the acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), following the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun from the top position of the Nigerian Police Force.
Egbetokun, who was appointed in June 2023 for a four-year term set to end in June 2027 under the amended Police Act, resigned citing personal family considerations.
According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President received Egbetokun’s resignation letter on Tuesday and commended his service to the nation.
Before his appointment as acting IGP, Tunji Disu served as the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) overseeing the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.
Why Senior DIGs Might Retire
In Nigeria, it is customary—though not legally mandated—for senior police officers to retire when a junior colleague is appointed IGP. This practice ensures respect for hierarchy, maintains organizational stability, and allows the new IGP to lead effectively.
Here is a detailed look at the Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) likely to retire to accommodate Disu’s leadership.
Senior DIGs Expected to Retire
Frank Mba
Frank Mba began his career as an Inspector, rising through the ranks to become an Assistant Inspector-General of Police in March 2023. He has served as National Spokesman for the Nigeria Police Force three times and received the UN Medal for service with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (2006–2007).
Mohammed Gumel
Appointed 4th Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Department in early 2026, Gumel is a veteran of community policing. He previously served as Commissioner of Police and was named Best Community Policing Advocate of the Year 2024.
Adebola Hamzat
Hamzat, Deputy Inspector-General overseeing Logistics and Supply, manages technical, administrative, and procurement needs of the police force. He previously served as AIG in charge of Zone 16, Yenagoa, and headed the Counter Terrorism Unit. He hails from Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State.
Yahaya Abubakar
DIG Abubakar leads the Department of Finance and Administration at Police Force Headquarters, overseeing budgeting, HR, and administrative processes. He was promoted to his current role by the Police Service Commission in 2024.
Basil Idegwu
Head of Research and Planning at Force Headquarters since March 2025, Idegwu holds a PhD in Peace and Security Studies. He is responsible for policy formulation, operational efficiency, and modernization of policing services.
Bzigu Kwazhi
As DIG in charge of Operations, Kwazhi manages national security operations, joint military-police actions, and tactical responses to crises such as riots and disasters. He has extensive field experience, including restoring peace in Plateau and Adamawa States in 2025.
Idris Abubakar
Abubakar joined the Nigeria Police Force as a cadet ASP on May 18, 1992. He holds a B.Sc. in Education, M.Sc. in Education (Psychology), and a PhD in Psychology. He hails from Garko LGA, Kano State.
Adebowale Williams
Williams, senior DIG in charge of Information and Communication Technology, leads the Force’s technology infrastructure and digital systems, enhancing modern policing operations.
Implications for the Police Force
Disu’s appointment signals a reshuffling of Nigeria Police Force leadership, with senior officers expected to retire to ensure a smooth transition. This aligns with long-standing tradition within the force, emphasizing hierarchy, seniority, and organizational stability.
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