Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has approved the upgrade of the Nigeria Police Force’s Legal Section to the Directorate of Legal Services and appointed AIG Ohiozoba O. Ehiede as its first Director.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the elevation aligns with ongoing strategic reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and improving operational efficiency across all police departments.

According to the statement, the Directorate will serve as the apex legal arm of the Force, overseeing the coordination and delivery of legal services, legal training, policy reviews, and engagement with prosecutorial bodies, the judiciary, and other stakeholders in the justice sector.

“This move is designed to give the Force’s legal operations a clear institutional identity, strengthen cohesion, and ensure recognition both locally and internationally,” Adejobi stated.

Egbetokun expressed confidence in AIG Ehiede’s wealth of experience, proven leadership, and distinguished service record, saying these qualities would be instrumental in driving the Directorate’s mandate.

The IGP added that the upgrade reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s renewed commitment to aligning its operations with global law enforcement standards, ensuring professionalism, transparency, and efficiency in all legal processes. By consolidating legal functions under a single directorate, the Force aims to boost its prosecutorial capacity and meet international best practices in policing.

The Inspector-General urged all officers, particularly legal practitioners within the Force, to support the new Directorate in enhancing justice delivery, improving prosecution success rates, and strengthening public confidence in police operations.