The Urgent Call for Change in Nigeria's Security Landscape

In December 2012, a pivotal moment occurred at the University of Ibadan. A police officer, Chief Superintendent Olatunji Disu, foresaw a troubling future for Nigeria. During a symposium themed "Tackling Kidnapping, Hijack and Terror," he delivered a stark warning. He predicted that without drastic action, Nigeria would face unprecedented insecurity within a decade. Unfortunately, the country did not heed his call.

Fast forward to June 25, 2026. I found myself in Abuja, standing with Disu, who is now the 23rd Inspector-General of Police of Nigeria. His career has been dedicated to the Force, and he now holds the power to address the very threats he once warned about. This moment carries significant weight.

A Warning Delivered, and Ignored

When Disu spoke in 2012, Nigeria was not yet grappling with rampant banditry or mass abductions. The kidnapping of schoolchildren was not a common occurrence. Disu's foresight was not mere pessimism; it was a diagnosis of an impending crisis. Tragically, his warning went unheeded, and the threat has only intensified.

Since then, Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violence and insecurity. Communities have suffered, and countless lives have been lost. The state has been unable to protect its citizens, leading to a grim reality where many negotiate with armed groups out of desperation.

The Measure of the Man

Disu's character is evident beyond his official role. Years ago, a family member of mine was murdered in Ife. I reached out to him for assistance. His response was profound. He expressed that if the victim was my blood, then they were his blood too. He committed to ensuring justice was served, resisting pressures that often derail investigations. In a system where integrity is often compromised, his steadfastness is remarkable.

When I questioned him on June 25, I was not speaking to a stranger. I was engaging with a man of principle.

The State Policing Question

Our discussion turned to the pressing issue of state policing. The National Assembly has passed a bill to alter Nigeria's security framework, potentially creating state police services alongside the federal force. This change could redefine policing in Nigeria, ending a century of centralized control.

I directly addressed the concerns surrounding this reform. Some senior officers and politicians resist it, fearing that state police might be misused by governors. I asked Disu if he supports state policing despite this pushback.

Without hesitation, he affirmed his commitment to community policing. His career has been a testament to this belief. As Commander of the Lagos Rapid Response Squad, he rebranded his officers as "The Good Guys," demonstrating that a police unit can be both effective and trusted. He believes that security is best managed at the community level, by officers who understand the neighborhoods they serve.

The fears regarding potential abuse of power are valid. However, the proposed bill includes safeguards. It prohibits governors from directing state police to unlawfully target individuals or groups. It also ensures that state commissioners can only be removed for valid reasons, following a fair hearing. While these measures are not foolproof, they represent a significant step toward accountability.

A Force Built to Serve

Disu is also focused on reforming the Nigeria Police Force. He aims to eliminate corrupt officers who extort citizens and undermine public trust. A community policing model cannot succeed without the public's confidence. Cleaning up the ranks is essential for creating a trustworthy police force.

His vision is straightforward yet radical. He seeks a police force that serves the Nigerian people rather than instilling fear. This shift is crucial for building a modern police force equipped with technology, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity capabilities. The threats facing Nigeria have evolved, and a force that cannot adapt to the digital landscape will fall behind.

Moreover, Disu emphasizes the importance of officer welfare. A well-supported officer is more likely to uphold integrity. Conversely, neglecting personnel leads to vulnerabilities within the force.

Cooperation Without Subordination

We also discussed Nigeria's role in global policing. Disu advocates for enhanced cooperation with international law enforcement agencies. He believes that Nigeria should engage with global partners while maintaining its sovereignty. Sharing intelligence on cross-border threats is vital, but it must be done on Nigeria's terms.

A confident police force learns from global best practices while setting its own priorities. Disu's approach reflects this understanding.

The Choice That Begins Today

The lesson from Disu's foresight is clear. The failure to act on his warning was not due to a lack of knowledge. It stemmed from a failure of will and governance. Security is not achieved through predictions alone; it requires decisive action based on existing knowledge.

Disu's elevation to Inspector-General is significant. However, he cannot succeed alone. He needs adequate funding, supportive legislation, and cooperation from political leaders. If the necessary support is withheld, Nigeria risks repeating the mistakes of the past.

A smaller narrative exists within this larger story. Two influential figures from the Ibadan symposium now hold key positions in Nigeria. One leads the Nigeria Police Force, while the other, Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, oversees the nation's revenue service. Oyo State has long been a source of leadership for Nigeria.

Nigeria has a unique opportunity. The man who foresaw the impending storm now leads the response. Whether this moment becomes a turning point or a mere footnote depends on the choices made today.

I have known Olatunji Disu for thirteen years. I have witnessed his unwavering commitment to justice. For the sake of all Nigerians living under the threat of insecurity, it is crucial that he is given the opportunity to succeed.

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Oludare Ogunlana is Founder and CEO of OGUN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC, a Professor of Cybersecurity, and a national security scholar who advises global intelligence and policy bodies on counterterrorism, African security, and the governance of emerging technology.

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