WorldStage– Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has approved the establishment of Counter Terrorism Bases in Madagali (Adamawa), Ikot Odo (Akwa Ibom), and Ode-Remo (Ogun), alongside the nationwide deployment of additional CTU personnel.
The move comes after a spate of attacks, including a February 25 assault by Boko Haram in Madagali that left at least 16 dead, highlighting urgent security gaps across northern and southern Nigeria.
Disu, recently appointed IGP by President Bola Tinubu, emphasized intelligence-driven policing and rapid response.
Analysts say the new bases could significantly improve local interventions, curb banditry, and strengthen coordination with military forces.
Disu had earlier been charged by President Bola Tinubu to lead a modernized and firm response against rising banditry and terrorism across Nigeria.
Since assuming leadership, IGP Disu has initiated several strategic security measures aimed at neutralizing criminal elements and restoring public confidence.
The IGP launched “Operation Darkin Gaggawa,” a specialized simulation exercise held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja to test and improve the force’s response to terrorist incidents.
Before his approval of the new bases, all tactical commanders from the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), and Special Protection Unit (SPU) have been ordered to withdraw officers from non-essential “extra-policing” services to ensure bases are fully prepared for immediate intervention.
Commissioners of Police in the North West, North East, and North Central zones have also been directed to heighten surveillance and intelligence gathering, specifically targeting “flashpoints” of unrest.
State Police Implementation: Following federal directives, IGP Disu has inaugurated a panel to oversee the implementation of State Police, a move intended to bring security operations closer to local communities.
Currently, the Nigeria Police Force is collaborating with US military teams to map terrorist enclaves nationwide using advanced tracking data and special mission aircraft.
The federal government recently unveiled a revised strategic plan that offers a framework for modernizing security architecture and strengthening national resilience.
Recent operational focus areas include Benue State where additional tactical teams and special forces were deployed to de-escalate reprisals and protect communities from rising violent attacks.
In Plateau State deployment of drones, APCs, and Special Intervention Squad (SIS) unit was made to secure Bokkos LGA and neighboring communities following repeated brutal assaults, while in Abuja (FCT), implementation of “Operation Darkin Gaggawa” simulation has been put in place to improve interoperability between units in response to urban terror threats.
IGP Disu has emphasized that his leadership will focus on professionalism, modern policing, and accountability, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest Police Formation.
