Akpanudom takes helm at FCID Annex, pledges professional, people-oriented policing

Michael Olumide

Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Lagos, formally welcomed a new era of leadership as Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Simeon Akpanudom officially assumed duty as the 56th AIG in charge of the formation.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, FCID Annex, ASP Mayegun Aminat, AIG Akpanudom takes over from the incumbent Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who previously served as the 55th AIG of the FCID Annex before his elevation to the nation’s top police office.

His appointment as the 23rd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police was made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and subsequently confirmed by the Nigerian Police Council.

A seasoned and accomplished officer, AIG Akpanudom brings decades of operational, investigative, and administrative experience to his new role.

Born on August 4, 1967, in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, he enlisted the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992, as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police.

Before his promotion, he served as Commissioner of Police in charge of the Anti-Fraud Section at FCID Annex Lagos, where he demonstrated exceptional expertise in tackling financial crimes and strengthening investigative capacity within the Force.

Academically, the new AIG holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Calabar, an Advanced Certificate in Industrial Safety and Control from the University of Port Harcourt, and a Master’s degree in Security and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.

He is also an alumnus of prestigious professional programmes, including the Strategic Leadership Command Course and the Higher Defence Management Course at the National Defence College, Abuja.

Throughout his illustrious career, AIG Akpanudom has held several key tactical, operational, and strategic positions across different police commands and formations. Notably, he served in the United Nations Mission in Kosovo, earning international recognition for his contributions to global peacekeeping efforts.

His outstanding service record has earned him numerous honours, including the Inspector-General of Police Commendation (Sword of Honour) as Best All-Round Cadet ASP Course 17/1992, the United Nations Medal (UNMIK), and awards for excellence in leadership and tactical command courses.

A Fellow of the Defence College, AIG Akpanudom is affiliated with several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), the Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He is also a Jerusalem Pilgrim.

In his remarks upon assumption of duty, the new AIG assured the public of the FCID Annex’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, thorough investigation of cases, and efficient service delivery.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration with sister agencies, government institutions, and the general public in combating crime.

He further reiterated the department’s dedication to upholding accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights, aligning with the Inspector-General’s vision of people-oriented policing.

AIG Akpanudom also highlighted plans to enhance the capacity of detectives through world-class training and the adoption of modern technology to improve digital investigative processes and overall effectiveness.

Calling for continued public cooperation, he urged citizens to remain law-abiding and to support the police with timely and credible information, stressing that collective effort remains crucial in addressing the evolving nature of crime and ensuring national security and economic growth.

The appointment marks a significant step in strengthening leadership at the FCID Annex Lagos, as stakeholders anticipate renewed momentum in criminal investigations and public trust in policing.