The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of AIG Banji Badaru Lawal as the substantive Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) representing the South West geopolitical zone. The decision was made during an extraordinary meeting held on Friday, January 17, 2025.
DIG Lawal, who previously served as AIG in charge of Border Patrol at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, succeeds DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi. Alabi, who represented the South West zone and was in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, retired on December 31, 2024.
DIG Lawal brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served in various capacities, including Commandant of the Police Training College, Ikeja; Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) in Ekiti, Abia, and Edo states; and Area Commander in Uyo.
He also held positions as Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) in Nasarawa and Akwa Ibom states, as well as Deputy Commissioner of Finance and Administration at the ICT Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Other key positions held by DIG Lawal include Deputy Commissioner and Deputy Registrar of the Central Criminal Registry (CCR) at the Force Headquarters Annex in Ikoyi; DCP Finance and Administration in Benue State; Deputy Commandant of the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano; and Commissioner of Police for General Investigation at the Force CID.
DIG Lawal appeared before the PSC plenary, which included the Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (retired), Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (retired Justice of the Supreme Court), and DIG Taiwo Lakanu (retired).
He underwent both written and oral examinations and commended the Nigeria Police Force’s Community Policing program, describing it as a success that has yielded significant results.
PSC Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu (retired) congratulated DIG Lawal on his elevation and urged him to make himself indispensable within the Police Management Team. He also wished him success in his new position.
The appointment reflects the PSC’s commitment to ensuring effective representation and leadership within the Nigeria Police Force.
LV