Odita Hails IGP Disu on Police Reforms, Accountability

Nigerians want a police force they can trust. Odita says achieving that goal requires more than fighting crime; it demands accountability, professionalism and reforms that put citizens first.

Odita has commended IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, stressing that effective policing requires institutional reforms, accountability, professional training and stronger public trust.

LAGOS — The Founder of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative (SHA), Comrade Odita Sunday, has commended the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his leadership approach, commitment to professionalism and efforts to strengthen public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

In a statement e-signed by Odita, he said effective police leadership must go beyond crime-fighting to encompass institutional reforms, accountability, respect for the rule of law and stronger relationships between the police and the communities they serve.

According to him, building a modern and people-centred police force requires a clear vision, discipline and a commitment to ensuring that officers discharge their constitutional responsibilities with integrity and professionalism.

“Leadership in the security sector goes beyond occupying an office or issuing directives. It is about setting standards, inspiring personnel, strengthening institutions and building public trust through professional conduct and measurable results,” Odita said.

He stressed that public confidence remains essential to effective policing, noting that cooperation between security agencies and communities is critical to crime prevention and improved national security.

Odita also highlighted the need for intelligence-led operations, greater operational efficiency, respect for human rights and strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

Odita Highlights Police Welfare, Professional Development

The SHA founder further emphasised the importance of improving the welfare of police personnel through continuous professional training, enhanced operational capacity and adequate institutional support.

He noted that officers who receive the necessary training, resources and encouragement are better positioned to deliver quality service and respond effectively to security threats.

Odita added that police personnel working under difficult and hazardous conditions deserve recognition for their sacrifices and leadership that promotes integrity, excellence and dedication to duty.

“The men and women who serve in the security sector make enormous sacrifices, often away from the public spotlight. Recognising their service and encouraging exemplary leadership are important steps towards building stronger and more responsive institutions,” he said.

Why SHA Promotes Responsible Leadership

Explaining the mission of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, Odita said the organisation identifies and celebrates individuals whose leadership, service and contributions have made significant impacts in security, governance, community development and national growth.

He maintained that recognising excellence can encourage professionalism, promote responsible leadership and inspire greater dedication to public service.

According to him, awards and other forms of recognition should be based on character, integrity, measurable institutional impact and commitment to humanity rather than titles or positions.

The SHA founder also urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at strengthening the country’s security architecture, stressing that national security requires cooperation among government institutions, communities, civil society organisations and the private sector.

Odita Expresses Optimism About Nigeria’s Policing Future

Expressing optimism about the future of policing in Nigeria, Odita said sustained reforms, purposeful leadership and stronger police-community partnerships could improve public safety and deepen citizens’ confidence in law enforcement.

He reaffirmed SHA’s commitment to promoting integrity, excellence and selfless service while encouraging public office holders to remain focused on delivering quality service to Nigerians.

Odita added that the true measure of leadership in the security sector lies in its impact on people’s lives, its ability to strengthen institutions and the trust it earns from the public.