IGP: I’ll improve the police… our best has not been good enough

Usman Alkali Baba, the acting inspector-general of police (IGP), says he will work hard to improve the force.

Baba was appointed in an acting capacity by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday.

Mohammed Adamu, the former IGP, handed over to him in Abuja on Wednesday.

Speaking after the ceremony, he said Nigerians should expect an improvement in the security situation in the country.

Baba said the police have tried their best in securing the country, “but it’s not enough”.

“You will see improvement on where my predecessor has left. I came in at a very challenging time. I know it. I recognise it and I will work on how to improve from where my predecessor has left,” he said.

“I have been a member of the management team. We have tried to do our best, but it’s not enough. There is room for improvement.

“Nigerians should expect improvement on the security situation. And Nigerians should also collaborate and cooperate with us. With all the inadequacies we have, we still require everybody to be part of policing in this country.”

Baba said he will build a police force that will protect human rights, adding that he is mindful of the yearnings of Nigerians.

He acknowledged that his appointment comes at a time the country is experiencing security threats such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, secessionist agitation, and organised crimes.

“Much as the challenge of leading the force to address these threats in the shortest possible time frame, restore security order, and return our beloved nation to the path of national unity may appear daunting, I am inspired by the fact that from my extensive years of service, I can confidently say that the Nigeria police is endowed with some of the finest, courageous and patriotic officers who, undoubtedly, shall support me to advance the internal security vision of Mr. President,” he said.

“I am also encouraged by the fact that the outgoing IGP has laid a solid foundation and entrenched a culture of professional efficiency in the Force. These will stimulate me in my capacity as the new acting IGP, to strengthen our strategies and provide the requisite leadership that will change the narratives in relation to our operational approach to the current security threats.”

Baba said he will provide “the highest possible level of professional and responsive leadership” while on the job.