IGP Disu Advocates Data-Driven Policing, Orders Stronger Crime Database Management

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has urged police investigators across the country to adopt stricter data-driven policing practices as part of efforts to modernise criminal investigations and strengthen intelligence-led operations.

He said accurate capture and proper management of suspects’ information remain critical to improving crime detection, tracking offenders, and enhancing national security outcomes.

The IGP gave the charge on Tuesday at the opening of a one-day Crime and Incident Database Impact Sensitization Workshop organised by the Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The workshop focused on strengthening the Suspects’ Information Capturing Process under the Nigeria Police Force Crime and Incident Database (NPF-ICD) Centre Project, an initiative designed to improve crime analysis, intelligence sharing, and evidence-based policing.

According to the police chief, modern law enforcement can no longer rely on traditional investigative methods alone, stressing that technology and data analytics now play a central role in effective policing.

“Modern policing is increasingly driven by timely, accurate, and actionable data,” Disu said. “Effective law enforcement can no longer rely solely on conventional investigative methods.”

He explained that the Crime and Incident Database Centre is a strategic national asset that can transform policing operations by enabling officers to identify patterns of criminal behaviour, link cases across jurisdictions, and detect repeat offenders more efficiently.

The IGP said the platform would also improve operational planning and decision-making at both tactical and strategic levels.

Reaffirming his commitment to police reforms, Disu called for full compliance with established procedures for capturing suspects’ information across all commands and formations nationwide.

He urged participants at the workshop to take the training seriously and contribute practical solutions that would improve the effectiveness of the Force’s crime management systems.

The police chief added that strengthening data systems would not only improve investigations but also enhance accountability, professionalism, and public trust in the Force.

He noted that the Nigeria Police Force is increasingly investing in technology, innovation, and intelligence-led strategies to boost operational efficiency and public safety.

The Force, he said, remains committed to building a more responsive and citizen-focused policing system that leverages modern tools for crime prevention and investigation.

Officials at the workshop also emphasised the importance of standardised data entry and inter-agency information sharing, noting that fragmented records often hinder effective prosecution and tracking of criminal activities.

The initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at modernising policing structures and improving coordination between investigative units nationwide.