The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for increased government investment in police infrastructure, personnel welfare, housing and operational funding, warning that sustained support is essential to strengthening national security and improving the Nigeria Police Force’s effectiveness.
Disu made the call on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to a press release issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the IGP expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s continued support but emphasised the need for additional interventions to address critical gaps affecting the Force.
He specifically highlighted infrastructure and funding challenges, alongside pension and welfare concerns affecting both serving and retired police personnel.
2027 Elections: Police Highlight Plans for Inclusive Security
Beyond personnel welfare and institutional development, the IGP also briefed the minister on preparations for the 2027 general elections.
He disclosed that the Police Force was undertaking personnel training and developing security measures to address the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups during the electoral process.
Disu stressed that adequate institutional support would strengthen the Police Force’s capacity to effectively discharge its election-security responsibilities and guarantee the safety of all categories of voters.
The emphasis on persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups is particularly significant as Nigeria prepares for another general election, where security, accessibility and equal participation remain essential components of an inclusive democratic process.
Minister Reaffirms Government’s Support
Responding, the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, described the IGP’s visit as timely and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the operational development and reform priorities of the Nigeria Police Force.
Gaidam commended the IGP’s leadership efforts and underscored the importance of intelligence-led policing in addressing the country’s security challenges.
He also highlighted ongoing government interventions aimed at improving police infrastructure and personnel welfare, particularly in the areas of pension and insurance arrangements.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Anuma Ogbonnaya Nlia, welcomed the IGP and his delegation, assuring them of the Ministry’s continued administrative support.
Nlia noted that stronger collaboration between the Ministry and the Police would help identify priority needs, enhance service delivery and rebuild public confidence in the Force.
The Bigger Picture
The engagement reinforces the need for sustained investment in policing, not only to improve the working conditions of officers but also to strengthen public safety, institutional accountability and citizens’ confidence in law enforcement.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the Police Force’s commitment to addressing the security needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups will require practical implementation.
Beyond assurances, Nigerians will be looking forward to seeing concrete measures that guarantee the safety, dignity and equal participation of every voter, irrespective of disability or vulnerability.
The Police reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Ministry of Police Affairs to strengthen operational capacity, improve personnel welfare and safeguard lives and property across the country.
