IGP commends Mobile Force on security dedication

The Inspector General of police (IGP) Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has commended the Police Mobile Force over it’s security dedication in Nigeria.

He stated this on Tuesday, during the IGP’s conference with police mobile force squadron at the IGP’s conference hall, force headquarters, Abuja.

“The IGP begin by sincerely acknowledging the unwavering dedication and sacrifices of the courageous officers of the Police Mobile Force. These brave men and women have consistently held the line in the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other violent crime often in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

“Your tireless efforts have brought honour to the Force and protection to our citizens. We remain immensely proud of your service.

“As we reflect on the invaluable contributions of the PMF, it is imperative that we re-evaluate its current role within the national security framework. Such an assessment will allow us to realign the unit’s core mandate with the broader strategic goals of the Nigeria Police Force and ensure a more effective response to modern security challenges.

“It is important that we remind ourselves of the original vision that shaped the Police Mobile Force.

“He reaffirmed the efforts by the leadership to enforce professionalism on such assignments.

“These unacceptable behaviours have not only discredited the Force but have unfairly overshadowed the honourable service of countless officers. This must come to an end.

“He said that moving forward, indiscipline and misconduct within the PMF will no longer be tolerated. Today marks the beginning of a new era one defined by accountability, discipline, and a recommitment to our founding values.

“All PMF Squadrons are directed to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby at all times.

“These units must be prepared to support their respective State Commands in any situation requiring urgent tactical intervention.

“Additionally, each Squadron will be required to send one unit for training every quarter. These sessions will go beyond operational proficiency, placing strong emphasis on ethics, professionalism, and the principles of responsible policing.

“As you are aware, directives have already been issued concerning the withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorized deployments. It is the duty of all commanders to enforce this directive without delay. A firm but gradual withdrawal from non-core assignments is underway. Concurrently, squadron sizes will be reviewed and reduced to ensure operational effectiveness and agility.

“From this moment, PMF Commanders will be held vicariously responsible for the conduct of their personnel. You are expected to lead proactively through regular lectures, inspections, and localized training programs that reinforce discipline, respect for human rights, and operational excellence.

“We must all rise to this challenge and take collective ownership of the task of restoring the lost prestige of the Police Mobile Force. The PMF must once again emerge as the elite tactical unit it was intended to be disciplined, professional, and always ready to defend the nation. Their continued deployment alongside the military in the Northeast, Northwest, and other strategic areas will now be further supported by the newly established Special Intervention Squad (SIS).

“Accordingly, this meeting also serves as a reaffirmation of our collective resolve to uphold operational discipline and ensure that the PMF stands as a dependable, credible, and professional arm of Nigeria’s security structure.

“Let me make this absolutely clear, the Nigeria Police Force will no longer allow the values, standards, and discipline that once defined the Police to be undermined. As the striking force of the NPF, the PMF carries an immense responsibility—to confront armed threats, insurgency, and criminal violence with integrity and courage. We must meet this responsibility head-on.

“As part of ongoing reforms, we will immediately embark on a comprehensive review and reorganization of the PMF. One of the first steps will be a significant reduction in the deployment of PMF personnel for escort, guard, and VIP protection roles.

“The priority now is to refocus our strength and personnel toward combating violent crimes and safeguarding national security.

“We will also inject new leadership perspectives, strategic approaches, and continuous capacity-building initiatives aimed at restoring the PMF to its rightful place as a dominant force in internal security and a model of tactical excellence.

“At this point, I wish to express our profound gratitude to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support of the Nigeria Police Force. I also acknowledge and deeply appreciate the steadfast support of our international partners, who continue to empower us through professional training, technical assistance, and strategic collaboration. Please be assured that such partnerships will be expanded to ensure that the PMF is fully aligned with global standards.

“Distinguished Commanders, the journey to rebuild the strength and reputation of the PMF begins with you. I urge you to take this charge personally and recommit with renewed energy to the ideals of discipline, integrity, and excellence in service. Together, we will restore the honour, capacity, and pride of the Police Mobile Force” he concluded.