The newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has formally assumed duty as the 23rd Commissioner of Police in the state, pledging to strengthen security, reduce crime and ensure the safety of lives and property.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, January 5, 2026, CP Adesola described his appointment as “both an honour and a call to service,” while expressing gratitude to God and appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, for the confidence reposed in him.
“I formally announce my assumption of duty as the 23rd Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command,” he said. “This posting is both an honour and a call to service, and I assure the leadership of the Force and the good people of Delta State of my total commitment to duty.”
CP Adesola noted that Delta State holds special significance in his policing career, having started his service in the Nigeria Police Force in the state after graduating from the Police Academy.
“Delta State holds a special place in my policing career. It was here that I began my journey in the Nigeria Police Force, and I have also served as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations,” he said, adding that returning as Commissioner of Police was “both a professional responsibility and a personal commitment to the peace and security of this State.”
He paid tribute to his predecessor, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, commending his leadership and service to the Command.
“I respectfully acknowledge and appreciate my predecessor, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, for his leadership, dedication and service. He leaves behind institutional structures and operational foundations upon which we shall continue to build,” CP Adesola said.
Outlining his mandate, the Commissioner said the Inspector-General of Police had charged him to strengthen security and reduce crime to the barest minimum across Delta State.
“The mandate given to me by the Inspector-General of Police is clear: to strengthen security, reduce crime to the barest minimum, and ensure that the people of Delta State live in safety and peace,” he stated.
He stressed that insecurity poses a threat to economic growth, noting that “no society or economy can thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity,” and pledged that the Command would protect lives, property and legitimate economic activities in the state.
CP Adesola assured residents that the Police under his leadership would consolidate on existing gains while adopting a professional and people-centred policing strategy.
“Our focus will include intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, community-based policing, and strict adherence to the rule of law and respect for human rights,” he said.
He further disclosed that the Command would collaborate with sister security agencies, the Delta State Government, traditional institutions and community leaders to tackle crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and community conflicts.
“The Command will work closely with all relevant stakeholders to address criminal activities within the confines of the law and in line with national policing standards,” he added.
Calling for public cooperation, CP Adesola emphasised that security is a collective responsibility.
“Effective policing thrives on trust, cooperation and timely information from the public,” he said. “If you see something, say something, responsibly and through appropriate channels.”
He also described the media as a critical partner in policing, saying, “Your professionalism, objectivity and cooperation play a vital role in shaping public understanding, building trust and supporting security initiatives.”
Addressing officers and men of the Command, CP Adesola assured them of fair and purposeful leadership but warned against misconduct.
“I expect discipline, professionalism and loyalty to duty at all times,” he said. “Acts of incivility, abuse of office, extortion or violation of human rights will not be tolerated under my leadership.”
In closing, the Commissioner reaffirmed his commitment to service and accountability, expressing confidence that with the support of the Inspector-General of Police, sister agencies and the people of Delta State, the Command would deliver a safer and more peaceful state.
