Nigeria Police Force Announces Major Restructuring of Tactical Squads
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially addressed and corrected what it terms "misleading reports" regarding the status of its tactical units across the nation. In a significant administrative move, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has directed a comprehensive restructuring of police squads, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and public trust.
Clarification on Disbandment Claims
In a statement released on Sunday, March 22, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police hierarchy firmly denied widespread speculation that IGP Disu had ordered the immediate and total dissolution of all tactical units operating within state commands. The statement emphasized that reports suggesting a complete disbandment are inaccurate and do not reflect the actual directive issued by the police leadership.
The clarification comes amid public discourse on police operations, with the NPF seeking to set the record straight. IGP Disu, appointed by President Bola Tinubu and effective from February 24, 2026, is described as a "grassroots officer with a profound network across Nigerian society." He is reportedly attuned to citizen concerns regarding the conduct of various tactical teams and the proliferation of such units established by Commissioners of Police and other formation heads.
Rationale Behind the Restructuring Directive
IGP Disu, drawing from his extensive experience in command positions nationwide, acknowledges the valuable role tactical teams play in combating crime. However, he expressed discomfort with their unchecked multiplication, which has led to critical operational challenges.
The primary issues identified include:
- Manpower Drain: The proliferation of these squads has significantly depleted the required personnel at essential Police Divisions and Posts, undermining routine policing duties.
- Supervision Deficits: Many of these teams operate with inadequate oversight, leading to instances of misconduct that tarnish the overall integrity of the Force.
- Public Complaints: Excesses by poorly supervised tactical units have generated numerous public grievances, eroding community trust in law enforcement.
Specifics of the New Police Directive
To address these systemic issues, IGP Disu has issued a clear directive to cap the number of tactical teams at various command levels:
- Zonal and State Command Levels: A maximum of five tactical teams are permitted.
- Area Command and Divisional Levels: A maximum of three tactical teams are allowed.
The implementation of this cap is to be achieved through the merging or disbanding of existing teams, a decision left to the discretion of the respective Heads of formations. It is crucial to note that this directive excludes state government-created security outfits such as Lagos State's Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Oyo State's Special Response Squad (SRS), and Bayelsa State's Operation DOO-AKPOR, among other similar entities across the country.
Expected Outcomes of the Police Restructuring
According to spokesperson Placid, the IGP anticipates several positive outcomes from this strategic restructuring:
- Enhanced Personnel Availability: Freeing up officers to return to and bolster staffing at local police stations, thereby improving response capabilities for everyday community policing.
- Reduced Public Complaints: By imposing stricter limits and encouraging better supervision, the move aims to curtail the excesses that have led to widespread public dissatisfaction.
- Improved Oversight and Efficiency: Consolidating teams under a clearer command structure is expected to enhance accountability, operational control, and overall effectiveness in crime-fighting efforts.
This restructuring initiative represents a pivotal step in IGP Tunji Disu's broader agenda to reform and modernize the Nigeria Police Force. It underscores a commitment to balancing robust tactical responses with the fundamental need for accountable, community-focused policing that respects citizens' rights and fosters public cooperation.
