The newly sworn-in Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has endorsed the establishment of state police, declaring that the initiative “has come to stay.”

Disu made the remarks on Wednesday while speaking on the committee for state police implementation shortly after his swearing-in ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

His position comes amid renewed legislative momentum for state policing, following President Bola Tinubu’s request to the Senate to expedite action on enacting a legal framework for its establishment.

Addressing concerns within security circles, the IGP dismissed suggestions that the Nigeria Police Force might feel threatened by the proposed structure.

“From the angle of the Nigerian Police, we don’t want it to seem as if others are taking decisions, and we, the most important people concerned, didn’t do anything,” Disu said.

“We want to ensure that the best thing is done. The police should be able to contribute and do their own part in making it succeed.

The police are not afraid. Our jobs are not being taken; it’s just an issue of partnership.”

The debate over state police has intensified in recent years, with proponents arguing that decentralised policing would enhance response time and improve security at the grassroots, while critics warn about potential abuse by state authorities.

Disu’s endorsement signals institutional backing from the top hierarchy of the Nigeria Police Force as discussions move toward legislative action.