The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has approved the establishment of two new Area Commands and the upgrade of five Police Stations to Divisional status in Benue State, as part of efforts to strengthen internal security architecture and enhance police visibility.
The move, according to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, follows a comprehensive assessment of security challenges in the state, particularly in troubled Local Government Areas where additional police presence is considered crucial.
The newly created Area Commands are Daudu Area Command, which will oversee Guma, Daudu, Yelwata, and Agan Divisions; and Naka Area Command, which will supervise Naka, Apa, Agatu, and Okpokolo Divisions. In addition, the Police Stations in Ayilamo, Yelwata, Jato-Aka, Okpokolo, and Agan have been upgraded to full-fledged Divisional Headquarters.
The restructuring, the Force said, is aimed at improving response time to distress calls, ensuring quicker resolution of conflicts, and bringing policing services closer to communities in difficult terrains.
IGP Egbetokun charged the Commissioner of Police in Benue State and officers to be deployed to the new formations to demonstrate professionalism and renewed commitment in securing lives and property. He further appealed to the government and people of Benue State to continue supporting the Police, stressing that collaboration with communities remains central to sustaining peace and security.
He also directed Commissioners of Police in other states facing similar security challenges to adopt practical strategies for community-driven policing, assuring them of the necessary support and resources from Force Headquarters.
