The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has officially approved the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) for the Nigeria Police Force. This strategic appointment marks a significant leadership change within the police communications hierarchy, with DCP Placid taking over the crucial role of shaping public perception and engagement for the nation's primary law enforcement agency.
A Seasoned Officer with Diverse Expertise
Outgoing Force PRO, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, praised the incoming officer, describing DCP Placid as "a seasoned officer with extensive experience in administration, operations, intelligence, training, and international peacekeeping." This endorsement highlights the comprehensive skill set that DCP Placid brings to the position, suggesting a focus on both domestic policing challenges and global security standards.
Educational and Professional Background
Born on 2 December 1970 in Mbiokporo Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, DCP Placid boasts an impressive academic portfolio. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo, a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos, and an LL.B from the National Open University of Nigeria. His educational foundation spans multiple disciplines, providing a robust framework for his policing career.
DCP Placid joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police at the Police Academy in Kano in 1996 and was commissioned in August 1998. Over the years, he has attended numerous professional and international courses, including:
- United Nations Peace Operations Specialised Training (POST)
- UNITAR Senior Leadership and Peacebuilding course in Kenya
He also holds certifications in Police Studies, Military Studies, Gender Awareness, International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights, and Civilian Protection, underscoring his commitment to modern, rights-based policing practices.
Extensive Service Record in Nigeria and Abroad
DCP Placid's career is marked by a diverse array of roles both within Nigeria and on the international stage. His key positions include:
- Police Public Relations Officer in Adamawa State
- PPRO at the Police Staff College in Jos
- Chief of Training for the African Union Mission in Sudan
- Head of Training and Development for the United Nations Mission in Darfur
- Divisional Police Officer in Federal Housing Calabar, Bakassi, Uruan, and Gembu
- Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Robbery Unit in Kaduna State
- African Union Election Security Adviser
- Assistant Commissioner of Police in operations and intelligence across Akwa Ibom, Kogi, and Abia States
This extensive experience demonstrates his versatility and capability in handling various policing functions, from community engagement to high-stakes international missions.
Professional Affiliations and Achievements
Beyond his operational roles, DCP Placid is an active member of several prestigious organizations. He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), a Commonwealth Human Rights Trainer, and an International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Trainer on International Humanitarian Law. These affiliations highlight his dedication to upholding human rights and humanitarian principles in policing.
In a notable academic achievement, DCP Placid is a graduate of the Senior Executive Course (SEC 47) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru. He was inducted as a Member of the National Institute (mni) on 13 December 2025, a recognition that underscores his strategic thinking and policy development capabilities.
Personal Life and Interests
On a personal note, DCP Anthony Okon Placid is married with children. He enjoys listening to music and actively participates in sports, including playing football, basketball, table tennis, and badminton. His engagement with people, both professionally and personally, suggests a well-rounded individual poised to effectively communicate with the public in his new role as Force PRO.
This appointment by IGP Disu is expected to bring a fresh perspective to police-public relations, leveraging DCP Placid's vast experience and international exposure to enhance transparency and trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
