IGP Orders Overhaul of Police Mobile Force to Bolster Internal Security

In a decisive move to revamp Nigeria’s internal security architecture, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has announced a sweeping reorganization of the Police Mobile Force (PMF). This strategic overhaul aims to return the PMF to its original purpose as a rapid-response tactical unit while reinforcing discipline, professionalism, and operational efficiency across its ranks.

The directive, delivered during a pivotal conference with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, marks a major shift in the deployment and operational mandate of the elite unit. IGP Egbetokun emphasized the need to curtail the misuse of PMF personnel, particularly their involvement in unauthorized deployments such as private security details and escort services for VIPs—a practice he decried as detrimental to the Force’s effectiveness.

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Police Mobile Force: A Return to Core Duties

Addressing the gathering of squadron commanders, the IGP stressed the urgent necessity of repositioning the PMF in accordance with its foundational role: to act as a strike-ready arm of the Nigeria Police Force, capable of responding swiftly to riots, emergencies, and violent disturbances.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP expressed deep concern over the gradual deviation of PMF units from their core security responsibilities. He noted that assigning PMF personnel to escort duties and private guard roles has weakened their operational readiness and compromised public safety.

To correct this trend, the IGP has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all PMF officers from unauthorized duties. This includes any non-operational assignments not directly aligned with national security interests or internal defense mechanisms.

Among other reform measures announced are:

• Quarterly ethical and tactical training sessions for PMF personnel.
• Mandatory standby of fully equipped and combat-ready PMF units in all Squadrons.
• Strict accountability for PMF Commanders regarding their officers’ conduct and deployment.
• Enhanced inspections and mentorship, aimed at fostering discipline and professionalism.

The IGP reiterated that these steps are not just administrative mandates but form part of a broader institutional reform aimed at rebuilding public trust and operational credibility within the Force.

Leadership, Training, and Tactical Readiness

As part of the transformation, the IGP highlighted the introduction of new leadership strategies and the rollout of capacity-building initiatives designed to equip PMF personnel with the skills needed to tackle contemporary security threats. These changes are to be implemented with adherence to international standards and practices.

“Commanders must lead by example,” IGP Egbetokun asserted. He urged senior officers to take on greater roles in mentoring, enforcing discipline, and conducting rigorous inspections to ensure a high standard of service delivery and human rights compliance.

The Inspector-General also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to repositioning the PMF as the tactical backbone of Nigeria’s policing operations, capable of confronting high-risk threats without compromise.

Acknowledging the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the IGP expressed gratitude for the administration’s continued backing of police reforms. He also commended international partners for their role in improving the Force’s technical capacity and training infrastructure.

A Call to Embrace Reform

In a rallying call to his commanders, IGP Egbetokun described the reformation of the PMF as both a professional duty and a moral obligation. He encouraged officers to embrace the new direction wholeheartedly, assuring them that their role in safeguarding the nation is irreplaceable.

“This is a turning point for the PMF and the Nigeria Police Force as a whole,” he said. “We must all rise to the occasion, not only to protect the lives and property of Nigerians but to restore the honor, discipline, and operational distinction that the PMF was built upon.”

The Inspector-General concluded by affirming the Force’s dedication to its constitutional mandate and its mission to build a more secure and peaceful Nigeria.