•• Announces Immediate Reorganization, Withdrawal from Non-Core Duties, and Enhanced Training for Elite Unit
By Dansebe Daudu.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun has announced a sweeping reorganization of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) with immediate effect, aiming to strengthen internal security and significantly enhance the unit’s operational readiness. The directive was issued during a conference held with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
IGP Egbetokun underscored the critical need to realign the PMF with its original mandate as the Nigeria Police Force’s specialized strike unit, primarily tasked with swift responses to riots, emergencies, and serious violent threats. He expressed concern that the deployment of PMF personnel to non-essential roles, such as escort and guard duties for private citizens and VIPs, has significantly undermined the unit’s core effectiveness.
To address this challenge, the IGP outlined a series of decisive measures. These include the immediate recall of PMF personnel from all unauthorized deployments, the implementation of regular quarterly training with a strong emphasis on ethics and professionalism, and the establishment of mandatory standby units across all Squadrons, fully equipped and combat-ready for rapid tactical deployment when needed.
Furthermore, IGP Egbetokun declared that PMF Commanders will be held directly accountable for the conduct and professionalism of their officers. He urged them to adopt proactive leadership through consistent training exercises, rigorous inspections, and mentorship programs designed to instill discipline, ensure respect for human rights, and cultivate operational excellence within their ranks.
Reaffirming the Force’s unwavering commitment to restoring the PMF to its intended role as a highly disciplined and dependable tactical arm, the IGP highlighted ongoing plans to introduce modern leadership strategies and robust capacity-building initiatives. These efforts are geared towards effectively addressing contemporary security challenges and aligning with international best practices in policing.
The Inspector-General of Police extended his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support of the Nigeria Police Force. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Force’s international partners in providing crucial training and technical assistance. IGP Egbetokun charged all PMF Squadron Commanders to embrace the reform as both a professional and moral imperative, reiterating the Nigeria Police Force’s enduring commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens and ensuring national security.
Signed:
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters
Abuja.
22nd April, 2025
