In a strategic move to ensure continued security leadership, the Police Service Commission (PSC) announced significant changes in the police command structure of two Nigerian states on Thursday. Miller Gajere Dantawaye and Betty Enekpen Otimenyin have been appointed as substantive Commissioners of Police for Kogi and Edo states respectively, stepping into roles that will soon be vacated by retiring officers.
The appointments, revealed through an official statement by PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani, come as current commissioners approach their retirement dates. CP Chukwuka Bertrand Onuoha of Kogi State will conclude his service on January 22, 2025, while CP Peter Umoru of Edo State will retire three days later on January 25.
CP Dantawaye, who takes the helm in Kogi State, brings a wealth of experience from various commanding positions across Nigeria. His distinguished career includes serving as Assistant Commissioner of Operations in the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and holding key positions at the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano. His expertise spans criminal investigation, fraud prevention, and technological innovation, having served as Commissioner of Police for Information Technology at Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The newly appointed Edo State Commissioner, CP Betty Enekpen Otimenyin, has carved out an equally impressive career path since beginning her service in Bauchi State. Her journey through the force includes significant roles as a Divisional Police Officer across multiple divisions in Plateau and Edo Commands. Otimenyin’s leadership capabilities were further honed through positions as Assistant Commissioner of Police Administration in Kebbi State and the Nigeria Port Authority Western Port, Lagos State. Prior to her new appointment, she served as Commissioner of Police Administration in the Force Intelligence Department, Abuja.
PSC Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd) emphasized the critical nature of these appointments, calling on the new commissioners to demonstrate unwavering dedication to their duties. The security challenges facing our nation require leaders who can hit the ground running,” Argungu stated, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to monitoring and supporting their performance in their new roles.
The transition comes at a crucial time for both states, which face unique security challenges requiring experienced leadership and innovative approaches to law enforcement. The appointments reflect the PSC’s strategy of ensuring seamless continuity in police operations while bringing fresh perspectives to state commands.
The Commission has already set the wheels in motion for the transition, with Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission, formally communicating the appointments to the Inspector General of Police for immediate implementation. This prompt action underscores the importance of maintaining strong leadership within the state police commands.
These appointments represent more than just administrative changes; they symbolize the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s police force, with both commissioners bringing diverse experiences and approaches to their new roles. Their appointments also highlight the force’s commitment to professional development and strategic placement of officers in crucial command positions.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with various security challenges, the expertise and leadership of these newly appointed commissioners will be crucial in maintaining law and order while fostering community relations in their respective states. Their success will not only impact the immediate security situation in Kogi and Edo but could also serve as a blueprint for effective police leadership across the nation.
The coming weeks will be critical as the new commissioners transition into their roles, implement their security strategies, and work to build upon the foundations laid by their predecessors. Their performance will be closely watched by both the PSC and the communities they serve, as they take on the responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of citizens in their jurisdictions.