The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has appointed Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), of the Nigeria Police Force.
The appointment, announced on March 8, 2026, marks a leadership change in the police media department, with Placid replacing Benjamin Hundeyin, who previously served as the spokesperson of the force.
The development is part of a broader restructuring of the police communication system aimed at strengthening public engagement and improving the dissemination of information about police activities.
Background to the Appointment
The appointment of Placid comes shortly after Disu assumed office as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police following the resignation of his predecessor.
Following his emergence as police chief, Disu initiated a restructuring of key departments within the police headquarters in Abuja, particularly the media and public relations unit.
Key changes include:
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Appointment of a new Force spokesperson.
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Creation of a New Media Office to improve digital communication.
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Appointment of a new officer to oversee online and social media communication.
These changes are designed to modernise how the police communicate with the public and manage information in the digital age.
Profile of DCP Anthony Okon Placid
Early Life
DCP Anthony Okon Placid, was born on December 2, 1970, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. He hails from Mbiokporo Nsit in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of the state.
Education
Placid has an extensive academic background:
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Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Geography and Regional Planning – University of Uyo
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Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (MALD) – University of Jos
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Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) – National Open University of Nigeria
His academic training reflects a combination of security, diplomacy, and legal studies, which are considered valuable for a public relations and policy communication role.
Professional Career and Experience
Before his appointment as Force PRO, Placid built a reputation as a seasoned police officer with extensive operational and administrative experience.
According to the police statement, he has served in several strategic areas including:
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Administration
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Operations
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Intelligence
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Training
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International peacekeeping missions
These roles have provided him with significant exposure to both field operations and strategic communication within the police force.
Role and Responsibilities as Police PRO
As the Force Public Relations Officer, Placid will serve as the official spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force.
His responsibilities include:
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Communicating police policies and activities to the public.
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Managing media relations and press briefings.
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Responding to public concerns and misinformation.
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Coordinating information dissemination across police commands nationwide.
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Enhancing transparency and trust between the police and the public.
The role is particularly critical as it shapes public perception of the police institution.
Outgoing PRO: Benjamin Hundeyin
Placid takes over from Benjamin Hundeyin, an Assistant Commissioner of Police who served as the Force spokesperson from September 2025 to March 2026.
During his tenure:
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He became one of the most visible police spokespersons in Nigeria.
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He actively engaged citizens through social media platforms.
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He gained a large online following and used digital platforms to communicate police operations and clarify public issues.
Hundeyin also confirmed the announcement of Placid’s appointment from the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Creation of the Police New Media Office
Alongside Placid’s appointment, the police leadership created a New Media Office to strengthen digital communication and online engagement.
To head the new department, the IGP appointed Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), Ali Giwa as the Force New Media Officer.
The office will focus on:
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Managing social media communication
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Countering misinformation online
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Promoting public awareness of police activities
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Enhancing transparency through digital platforms
This move reflects the police leadership’s recognition of the growing importance of digital media in law enforcement communication.
Significance of the Appointment
The appointment of Placid is considered significant for several reasons:
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It marks one of the early administrative decisions by the new IGP.
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It signals a restructuring of the police media and communication architecture.
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It underscores the need for stronger public engagement and transparency in policing.
Observers say the new spokesperson will play a vital role in shaping how the police interact with citizens, media organisations, and civil society.
Conclusion
The appointment of DCP Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer represents a strategic shift in the communication structure of the Nigeria Police Force.
With the restructuring initiated by IGP Olatunji Disu—including the establishment of a New Media Office—the police leadership aims to modernize information management, improve public relations, and enhance trust between the police and the Nigerian public.
As the new spokesperson, Placid is expected to leverage his professional experience and academic background to strengthen transparency and effectively communicate the activities of the police force nationwide.
