The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has announced the reorganisation of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) as part of urgent measures to boost internal security and operational preparedness across the country.
The development comes in the wake of recent violent attacks in Plateau and Benue states.
A statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on April 22, 2025, said the directive was unveiled during a conference with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, where the IGP stressed the critical need to reposition the PMF in line with its core mandate.
He described the PMF as “the elite strike force of the Nigeria Police, specifically established to respond swiftly to riots, emergencies, and violent threats nationwide.”
IGP Egbetokun expressed concern over what he termed the “diversion” of PMF operatives to non-core duties such as personal escort and guard assignments for private individuals and VIPs — a situation he believes has compromised the tactical unit’s capacity to perform its primary responsibilities.
He directed “the immediate withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorized deployments” and the introduction of “regular quarterly training sessions focusing on ethics, professionalism, and operational readiness.”
Also, he ordered that “all Squadrons must maintain combat-ready units on standby, fully equipped for rapid tactical response.”
The IGP made it clear that PMF Commanders will henceforth be held personally accountable for the conduct and operational standards of their personnel.
“You must lead by example,” he told them, and charged them to engage in “proactive supervision, routine training, inspections, and mentorship designed to instill discipline, respect for human rights, and excellence in operations.”
While reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to restoring the PMF to its rightful role, the IGP announced plans for “new leadership strategies and capacity-building initiatives aimed at tackling contemporary security challenges and aligning the Force with global best practices.”
The police boss also extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continuous support of the Force, while appreciating the valuable contributions of international partners in strengthening the training and technical capacities of the PMF.
He urged all PMF Squadron Commanders to view the reforms as both “a professional duty and a moral imperative,” adding that “the Nigeria Police Force remains fully committed to the protection of lives, property, and national security.”
