The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all Police Mobile Force (PMF) squadrons across Nigeria to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on constant standby, with immediate effect.
This directive was issued during a meeting with PMF Squadron Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday, following recent bandit attacks in Kwara, Benue, and Sokoto States, which resulted in the death of 21 individuals.
Egbetokun emphasized the original purpose of the PMF, saying, “The PMF was created as a strike force – to be swift, decisive and combat-ready.” He stressed that the newly mandated standby units must be ready to provide rapid support to state commands during crises, emergencies, or high-risk operations.
In addition to this, he announced that every squadron will send at least one unit for quarterly training, focusing not only on operational tactics but also on ethics, professionalism, and responsible policing.
The IGP also revealed that squadron sizes will be reviewed and streamlined to boost agility and effectiveness. He warned that PMF commanders will now be held vicariously responsible for the conduct of their personnel, underscoring the importance of leadership in maintaining discipline and human rights standards.
“You are expected to lead proactively through regular lectures, inspections, and localised training programmes that reinforce discipline, respect for human rights and operational excellence,” he added.
This move is part of broader efforts to reposition the PMF as a tactical strike force capable of swift, decisive action in the face of rising security threats across Nigeria.
