Police Reform: IGP Upgrades Legal Section To Directorate Status, Appoints Pioneer Director

In line with the ongoing strategic reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing operational efficiency across all departments of the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has approved the elevation of the Legal Section of the Force to the Directorate of Legal Services.

DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, ‎Abuja, who said this in a statement on Tuesday, added that the Directorate will serve as the apex legal arm of the Nigeria Police Force, responsible for the coordination and delivery of legal services, including legal training, comprehensive policy review, and structured engagement with prosecutorial bodies, the judiciary, and other relevant stakeholders in the justice sector.

Adding: “The move is designed to create a clear institutional identity for the Force’s legal operations, strengthen cohesion, and secure recognition across both domestic and international jurisdictions.”

The Inspector-General further announced the appointment of AIG Ohiozoba O. Ehiede, psc (+), as the pioneer Director of the Directorate of Legal Services. AIG Ehiede brings with him a wealth of experience, proven leadership, and a distinguished record of service, which are expected to drive the Directorate’s mandate with excellence.

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This upgrade reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s renewed commitment to aligning its operations with global law enforcement standards and ensuring that legal processes within the Force meet the highest levels of professionalism, transparency, and efficiency. By consolidating its legal structures under a directorate framework, the Force aims to improve its prosecutorial prowess to meet the international best policing standards.

The Inspector-General enjoined all officers and men of the Force, particularly legal practitioners within its ranks, to support the Directorate in its mission to advance justice delivery, improve prosecutorial success rates, and enhance public confidence in police operations.