PRESS RELEASE
NIGERIA STRENGTHENS POLICE REFORMS WITH NEW REGULATIONS TO DRIVE ACCOUNTABILITY AND PROFESSIONALISM
The Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. (Dr.) Ibrahim Gaidam, has led the Federal Government’s efforts in advancing police reform with the formal launch and handover of the Nigeria Police Regulations (Amendment) 2026, a landmark framework designed to strengthen accountability, professionalism, and service delivery within the Nigeria Police Force.
The newly gazetted Regulations, signed in November 2025 and published in February 2026 pursuant to Section 138 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, provide a comprehensive operational guide for modern policing in Nigeria. They bridge the long-standing gap between policy and practice, replacing outdated provisions and aligning police operations with democratic principles and global best practices.
Speaking at the high-level event in Abuja, Minister Gaidam described the Regulations as a transformative instrument that reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to building a modern, disciplined, and citizen-focused police service.
“These Regulations represent a renewed commitment to professionalism, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. They are designed to strengthen institutional accountability, improve service delivery, and reposition the Nigeria Police Force to meet the expectations of Nigerians.”
The reform process was highly consultative, bringing together key institutions including the Nigeria Police Force, Police Service Commission, Federal Ministry of Justice, National Human Rights Commission, civil society organisations, and development partners.
Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, assured Nigerians of the Force’s readiness to fully implement the Regulations.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring immediate and effective implementation through integration into training, operations, and strict enforcement across all commands. Accountability and professionalism will remain at the core of our mandate.”
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Police Trust Fund, Alhaji. Mohammed Sheidu, expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to police reform.
Alhaji Sheidu,described the Nigerian Police Regulations 2025 as a major step toward building a more professional, accountable, and citizen-focused Police Force. He noted that the Regulations provide clear standards and structure, enabling more effective and impactful interventions by the NPTF.
Also,Speaking at the launch, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, Resident Representative of UNDP Nigeria, underscored the significant role of peace and security in national development:
“Effective, accountable, and people-centred policing is foundational to development, stability, and social cohesion. These Regulations provide the structure needed to translate reform into practice and to strengthen public trust in the police,” she said.
The Ministry acknowledged the critical support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which provided technical, financial, and coordination assistance through the Police Reform Secretariat under the Supporting Police Accountability and Transformation (SPAAT) programme, funded by the Government of Germany.
The Regulations introduce clearer command structures, strengthen disciplinary and oversight mechanisms, and enhance systems for training, recruitment, and career progression. They also reinforce human rights standards and gender-responsive policing, ensuring alignment with both national priorities and international expectations.
With the framework now in force, the Ministry emphasised that implementation will be critical. Efforts will focus on embedding the new standards across training institutions, operational systems, and leadership structures within the Force.
The launch marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing police reform agenda and signals a renewed commitment to building a professional, accountable, and people-centred police service that supports national security, public trust, and sustainable development.
Fatima Adamu
Ag. Head. Information and public Relations Unit.
15th April, 2026.
