Tunji Disu: 7 Crucial Things to Know About Nigeria's Newly Appointed Acting Inspector General of Police

President Bola Tinubu appointed Assistant Inspector-General Olatunji Rilwan Disu as acting Inspector-General of Police on 24 February 2026. Nigerians watched with hope as a career officer who nearly retired in 48 days now leads the force. His journey stirs pride and confidence in better days ahead.

Tunji Disu’s Roots and Formative Years

Olatunji Rilwan Disu was born on 13 April 1966 on Lagos Island. He attended Holy Cross Cathedral Primary School, Mayflower Junior School in Ogun State, Pobuna Secondary Grammar School in Epe and finished at St. Gregory’s College, Lagos in 1985. These early steps built the discipline that shaped his life. Sources confirm the details.

Impressive Academic Credentials That Set Him Apart

Disu earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Education from Lagos State University in 1990. He added a postgraduate diploma in International Relations and Strategic Studies, a Master’s in Public Administration from Adekunle Ajasin University in 2010 and another Master’s in Criminology, Security and Legal Psychology from LASU in 2022. He also holds a UK certificate in Personal Protection. His education fuels strategic thinking that Nigerians now count on.

Entry into the Police Force and Early Operational Grit

Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on 18 May 1992 as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent. He served as Divisional Police Officer in Ogun, Ondo and Rivers States. He commanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad and anti-kidnapping units and rose to second-in-command of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Rivers. These ground-level roles taught him the realities citizens face daily.

Peacekeeping Leadership in Sudan That Built International Respect

In 2005 Disu led Nigeria’s first police contingent on the African Union Mission in Sudan. He served as contingent commander and acting Chief of Staff in Darfur. This mission showcased his tactical command under pressure and earned him global recognition.

Transformative Command of Lagos Rapid Response Squad

From 2015 to 2021 Disu commanded the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad. He rebranded officers as “The Good Guys” and focused on community trust, crime mapping, hotspot policing and first-aid training. During COVID-19 and EndSARS, his team helped accident victims and rushed women in labour to hospitals. Citizens still remember the professionalism he instilled.

Intelligence Response Team Successes That Crushed Crime Syndicates

In 2021 Disu took charge of the Intelligence Response Team, succeeding Abba Kyari. He dismantled sophisticated fraud networks targeting bank accounts. Later, as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State (2023-2024) and the Federal Capital Territory (2024-2025), he strengthened operational depth. Promoted to Assistant Inspector-General in March 2025, he headed the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex in Lagos before his latest elevation.

Historic Appointment as Acting IGP and Promise of Renewed Security

On 24 February 2026 President Tinubu accepted Kayode Egbetokun’s resignation and named Disu acting IGP with immediate effect. Disu, 59 and just 48 days from mandatory retirement at 60, now serves a potential four-year term under the amended Police Act.

President Tinubu stated he chose Disu for his “experience, operational depth and demonstrated leadership capacity” to tackle current security challenges ahead of 2027 elections. Retired senior officers praise the move as injecting fresh ideas. About eight Deputy Inspectors-General are expected to retire, clearing space for new energy.

Disu’s story reminds every Nigerian that long, faithful service can still deliver the top job. His judo black-belt discipline, third dan rank, national gold medals and silver at the 2023 US Open Judo Championship reflect the focus he brings to policing. He belongs to the International Association of Chiefs of Police and other professional bodies.

As acting IGP, Disu carries the hopes of a nation tired of insecurity. His community-first approach in Lagos, intelligence victories and calm leadership in crisis give reason for optimism. Nigerians expect professional, accountable policing that protects every life.

The appointment marks a fresh chapter. Disu stands ready to serve with the same dedication that defined his 34-year journey. Watch this space as he shapes a safer Nigeria.