CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa Takes Office as the New Enugu State Commissioner of Police

 

On March 11, 2025, a significant leadership transition occurred within the Enugu State Police Command as CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa officially assumed duty as the 29th Commissioner of Police. This change marks a new chapter for the state’s police force, with CP Giwa stepping into the role previously held by AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, who was recently promoted and redeployed. The announcement of this transition has generated interest across Enugu State, with residents and stakeholders eager to see how the new commissioner will address security challenges and uphold law and order.

A New Era of Leadership in Enugu State

CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Enugu State, as the region continues to navigate complex security dynamics. His assumption of duty was formally announced by the Enugu State Police Command through a press release issued by SP Daniel Ndukwe, the command’s Public Relations Officer. This leadership change is part of a broader reshuffling within the Nigeria Police Force, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening community safety.

Giwa succeeds AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, who served as the 28th Commissioner of Police before his promotion to Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG). Uzuegbu’s tenure was notable, and his redeployment reflects the dynamic nature of leadership roles within the force. With Giwa now at the helm, there is optimism that his extensive experience and commitment to proactive policing will bring positive developments to Enugu State.

Background and Qualifications of CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa

CP Giwa brings a wealth of experience to his new role, underpinned by a strong academic background and decades of service in the Nigeria Police Force. Born in Paikoro, Niger State, Giwa holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Economics from Bayero University, Kano, a prestigious institution known for producing accomplished professionals. His academic foundation has equipped him with analytical skills that complement his policing expertise.

Giwa joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1994 as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, marking the beginning of a distinguished career spanning over 30 years. Throughout his service, he has held numerous critical positions that have honed his operational, administrative, and leadership capabilities. His previous roles include serving as Personal Assistant to the Commissioner of Police and Police Public Relations Officer in Gombe State Command. Additionally, he has held significant positions within the Police Mobile Force (PMF), including Commanding Officer of No. 3 PMF Squadron in Enugu, Second-in-Command for No. 11 PMF in Calabar, and Unit Commander for No. 58 PMF in Kaduna.

His career trajectory also includes serving as Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Kafin Hausa Division in Jigawa State, as well as leadership roles within the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) at Force CID, Abuja. Giwa’s experience extends to strategic positions such as Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), X-Squad, at the FCT Command in Abuja, and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Operations in Imo and Kaduna States. Before his appointment as Enugu State Commissioner, he served as DCP overseeing Community Safety and Crime Prevention in the Department of Operations at Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Commitment to Professional and Community-Focused Policing

Upon assuming duty, CP Giwa pledged to implement a policing strategy that is professional, proactive, and people-oriented. This commitment aligns with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, who has emphasized the importance of community engagement and effective law enforcement. Giwa’s approach is expected to prioritize collaboration with residents, fostering trust between the police and the communities they serve.

In his statement, Giwa sought the cooperation of Enugu State residents, emphasizing that their support is crucial to achieving the police’s mandate of securing lives and property. His focus on a community-focused policing model suggests a shift toward greater transparency, accessibility, and responsiveness in addressing security concerns. This approach is particularly significant in a state like Enugu, where issues such as crime prevention and public safety remain top priorities.

Extensive Training and Accolades

CP Giwa’s career is distinguished not only by his operational roles but also by his extensive professional training and numerous accolades. He has completed several specialized courses that have enhanced his tactical and leadership skills. These include combat and operational training at the PMF Training College in Gwoza, Borno State, as well as the Advanced Detective Course (ADC) and the Tactical Leadership and Command Course (TLCC) at the Police Staff College in Jos. Additionally, he participated in a European Union (EU) training program on Countering Violent Extremism, further broadening his expertise in modern policing challenges.

His dedication to service has earned him several prestigious awards, including the Inspector-General of Police Commendation for Merit, the Best Squadron Award by Security Watch Africa during his tenure as Commanding Officer of No. 3 PMF in Enugu, and the Best Unit Commander Award from the PMF Training College in Gwoza. These accolades reflect his exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence in policing.

Personal Interests and Leadership Style

Beyond his professional achievements, CP Giwa is known for his disciplined and active lifestyle. A married father, he enjoys physical exercise, table tennis, and basketball, activities that underscore his emphasis on fitness and mental agility—qualities essential for effective leadership in law enforcement. His personal interests suggest a well-rounded individual who brings both physical and intellectual vigor to his role.

Giwa’s leadership style is expected to be characterized by a blend of firmness and approachability. His extensive experience in operational and administrative roles, combined with his training in community safety and crime prevention, positions him as a leader capable of addressing both traditional and emerging security challenges in Enugu State.

Implications for Enugu State’s Security Landscape

The appointment of CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa as the 29th Commissioner of Police in Enugu State carries significant implications for the region’s security landscape. His track record suggests a focus on proactive measures to combat crime, enhance public safety, and strengthen community relations. As Enugu State continues to develop economically and socially, the role of the police in maintaining stability and fostering trust cannot be overstated.

Stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and civil society organizations, are likely to closely monitor Giwa’s tenure, particularly in light of his pledge to implement a people-friendly policing strategy. Key areas of focus may include tackling urban crime, addressing rural security challenges, and enhancing collaboration with other security agencies to ensure a holistic approach to law enforcement.

Conclusion

The assumption of duty by CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa as the new Enugu State Commissioner of Police on March 11, 2025, marks a significant milestone for the state’s police command. With his extensive experience, robust training, and commitment to professional and community-focused policing, Giwa is well-positioned to lead the Enugu State Police Command into a new era of effectiveness and public trust. As he begins his tenure, the support and cooperation of Enugu residents will be critical to achieving his vision of a safer and more secure state.