The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has emphasized that education, research, and technological innovation are critical to developing a modern, professional, and intelligence-led police force capable of responding effectively to evolving security threats.
He made this known in Abuja during a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, where he sought continued support for the upgrading and expansion of police training and academic institutions.
READ MORE: Bola Ahmed Tinubu promises increased efforts if given second term mandate
Disu noted that many criticisms levelled against the Nigeria Police Force stem from gaps in training and professional development, stressing that contemporary policing now demands science-based and tech-driven methods.
According to him, “We understand that we cannot perform effectively without education. Most of the complaints against the police are rooted in educational gaps.
“Policing has moved beyond outdated practices. We aim to be more scientific in our approach. We need experts in forensics, criminology, cybersecurity, and data analysis. Our goal is research-backed policing supported by modern technology.”
He added that the police force is currently reforming its training institutions to align with global standards, pointing out that the proposed police university in Ogun State would represent a major step in ongoing institutional reforms.
“The future of effective policing depends on education, innovation, professionalism, and strong partnerships,” he said.
Disu further revealed that the Nigeria Police Force already has personnel trained in artificial intelligence, drone operations, and crime data analysis, noting that predictive policing is being adopted to anticipate and prevent criminal activity.
Through data-driven analysis, he said the force can identify crime patterns such as seasonal spikes in fraud and accidents, helping to improve prevention strategies.
He also called on TETFund to sustain its intervention in infrastructure development, ICT facilities, laboratories, research centres, and staff training programmes within police institutions.
In response, TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting the police, describing Disu as a highly competent officer with a strong record of professionalism.
He noted that collaboration between TETFund and the Nigeria Police Force has long existed and would continue to be strengthened.
Echono also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the establishment of a new campus of the Police Academy in Ogun State, with initial funding already released for its commencement.
He added that joint inspection and assessment exercises would begin immediately to facilitate the project’s implementation.
According to him, the goal is for the Ogun campus to eventually attain full university status, which would enable it to receive regular annual funding from TETFund.
He further pledged continued support for specialised training programmes in cybersecurity, technology, and advanced investigative techniques for police personnel.
Echono concluded that modern crime has become increasingly complex and technology-driven, stressing that continuous training, specialization, and innovation remain essential for effective policing.
About The Author
