Retired DIG Gumel: Honoured for meritorious service to fatherland

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Gumel

On Saturday, 21 March 2026, it was a grand reception in honour of Alhaji Mohammed Usaini Gumel, who recently retired as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, after 30 years of meritorious service to his father land. On that day, the great and noble family of Alhaji Abba Ani, of Gumel, Jigawa state, played host to dignitaries from all walks of life, who travelled from far and near, to celebrate DIG Gumel (rtd), the doyen of Community Policing, who put in his best in serving Nigeria and Nigerians, as a fine, gentle and professional Police Chief.

Yes. The occasion was aptly captioned: It was his elevation to the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police, who was, however, retired within a short period. The venue of the occasion— Ali Sa’adu Birnin Kudu Conference Hall, Jigawa state College of Education, Gumel, Jigawa state, was full to the brim. The celebration of retired DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel’s 30 years of meritorious service to the Nigeria Police Force, was a grand affair in his hometown, Gumel. In turns, dignitaries at the event spoke glowingly of his 30-year career in the Nigeria Police Force, marked, specifically, by pioneering community-policing initiatives, successful rehabilitation of over 700 repentant hoodlums (youths) in Kano, and establishing a technology-driven police division on Dala Hills, Kano, where he transformed a crime hotspot into a security hub.

Given his impressive achievements at all the states he served as a crime buster, the celebration was a proud moment for the people of Gumel, with dignitaries and community members in attendance. Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State had previously praised Gumel’s achievement, stating that it took him years of hard work, discipline, and sacrifice to reach such heights.

Governor Namadi who served as the Special Guest of Honour during the event joined Alhaji Mohammed Usaini Gumel’s family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to celebrate a remarkable milestone — 30 years of honourable service by a distinguished son of Jigawa State. According to him, Mohammed Usaini Gumel’s public service at this level is not merely about holding office; it is about sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and the preservation of peace in the society. Over the course of his distinguished career, DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel demonstrated exceptional professionalism, integrity, and leadership.

His contributions to intelligence-led policing, community safety initiatives, and national security coordination reflected a deep understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to law enforcement institutions in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic society. Governor Namadi further stated that: “For us in Jigawa state, and indeed within the Gumel Emirate, this occasion represents more than a personal celebration. It is a moment of collective pride in a son of the soil whose achievements exemplify the values of hard work, discipline, and service to humanity. I must also commend the Aba’ari Family for nurturing the values that have shaped this remarkable journey.”

Governor Namadi noted that: “Families remain the foundation upon which responsible leadership and national development are built. At a time when our nation continues to confront complex security challenges, we need leaders who combine professional competence, moral integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people. DIG Gumel has consistently demonstrated these qualities throughout his service. As he transitions into the next phase of life, I have no doubt that his experience, wisdom, and leadership will continue to contribute meaningfully to national development and institutional strengthening. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Jigawa State, I extend my warmest congratulations and appreciation for his dedicated service to our state, and to our nation.

“It is my sincere prayer that Almighty Allah continues to guide and protect him, granting him good health, wisdom, and strength in the years ahead. May his legacy continue to inspire younger generations to pursue excellence, integrity, and service to our nation.”

Indeed, for DIG Gumel (rtd), his achievements earned him recognition from traditional leaders, international partners like the UK Metropolitan Police, and awards such as Nigerian Police Community Policing Advocate of the Year 2024. Gumel’s leadership emphasizes community engagement, intelligence-led policing, and technology integration, making him a model for effective policing.

A scholar per excellence, DIG Gumel (rtd), also used the occasion to reflect on his 30 years of honour, faith and service to Nigeria, Nigerians, and the Nigeria Police Force. For him, it was a precious journey of sacrifice, integrity and faith.

In an emotion-laden speech, he said: “Thirty years ago, when I enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force, I could not clearly see the road ahead. What I knew and what guided me was a simple but powerful calling: to serve with integrity, faith, and unwavering commitment. My formal professional journey began at the Nigeria Police Academy, Annex Kaduna between 1992 and 1994. Over the years, I had the privilege of serving in various operational and strategic assignments across the country, including Federal Capital Territory, Niger State, Kwara State, Sokoto State, Kano State. These postings provided valuable exposure to the realities of policing in a diverse and dynamic society.”

DIG Gumel, further testified that through intelligence-led policing and strong collaboration with traditional institutions and community leaders, we strengthened security operations and restored confidence in law enforcement. According to him, in Kano state, “I faced one of the most complex assignments of my career. Through deliberate community policing initiatives and structured rehabilitation strategies, we successfully transformed more than 700 young individuals previously involved in criminal activities into productive members of society. Today many of them operate businesses, sustain families, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. For me, this remains one of the most precious chapters of my career. This is because, saving a life is greater than arresting one.”

He recalled that the 2023 Kano governorship election represented one of the most sensitive periods in the political life of Kano state. “Tensions were high and expectations, even higher. Through strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and disciplined operational coordination, we ensured a peaceful and violence-free electoral process. We also professionally managed post-election tensions and carefully navigated the Kano Emirate developments in 2024 with maturity, restraint and professionalism. Peace does not occur by chance. Peace requires preparation, patience, professionalism and prayer,” he stated.

On his international service, DIG Gumel (rtd) recalled that, “In 2011, I served as Police Unit Commander under the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). This experience deepened my understanding of international peacekeeping and post-conflict security management. Subsequently, within ECOWAS, I served in the Mission Planning and Management Cell and later as Head of Police Component in the Peace Support Operations Division between 2016 and 2021.In that capacity, we contributed to regional stability in Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia, particularly during delicate democratic transitions. International Recognition In 2015, during the first-ever New Scotland Yard Commendation Ceremony held in Nigeria, I received recognition from the United Kingdom Metropolitan Police Service for professionalism and international cooperation in a homicide extradition investigation.
That recognition was not a personal achievement alone. It was a testament to the credibility and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force on the global stage.”

The retired police chief also reminisced on his community policing exploits. He described it as a lifelong commitment in his subsequent leadership roles as: Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Training and Development; Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7, Abuja; Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Community Policing, Force Headquarters; and DIG Force Intelligence Department (FID), Nigeria Police Force Headquarters Abuja.

He further stated: “I remained committed to strengthening training standards, deepening accountability, and rebuilding trust between the police and the communities we serve. Being recognized as Community Policing Advocate of the Year (2024) and Community Policing Ambassador was deeply humbling. Yet the greatest reward remains this: “Communities beginning to trust the police again”. Family — My Greatest Strength. Permit me now to speak from the heart. Behind every posting letter was a family that adjusted. Behind every security crisis was a family that prayed. Behind every international mission was a family that waited patiently. My wife carried responsibilities with grace. My children grew with understanding. Our extended family stood as pillars of encouragement. If the uniform stood firm, it is because the home was stable. This anniversary does not belong to me alone. It belongs to every member of my family who sacrificed quietly and supported steadfastly. Lessons from Thirty Years of Service. Three decades of service have taught me invaluable lessons: Integrity is the highest medal. Education strengthens leadership. Peace is greater than force. Rehabilitation is more powerful than punishment. Family is the true command-and-control centre of strength. Message to the Younger Generation. To the young people present here today: Pursue excellence relentlessly. Guard your name jealously. Serve beyond personal ambition. Let your education refine you. Let your character define you.

“Titles will change, positions will evolve, but values must remain constant. I cannot conclude without expressing profound appreciation to: His Excellency Mallam Umar Namadi FCA, Executive Governor of Jigawa State and His Excellency, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Executive Governor of Kano State. Your unwavering support to my family and the Aba’ari community remains deeply appreciated. And I also acknowledge the royal blessings and guidance of His Royal Highness Dr Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, CON Emir of Gumel. With special gratitude, I recognize two distinguished uncles whose commitment and sacrifice were instrumental in organizing this programme: My Lord, Justice Ali Babandi Abubakar Gumel, CFR, Life Bencher and Justice of the Court of Appeal and Dr. Mohammed Hashim Gumel (Dan Makwayon Gumel) and founder of Gumel.com. Your dedication reflects the strength of our family heritage. I reflect on this precious journey of thirty years; I feel gratitude more than pride. Gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force.Gratitude to all my mentors and colleagues. Gratitude to international partners. And above all, gratitude to Allah, and my family — my greatest blessing.”

His words: “It is my honour and privilege to present the citation of a distinguished son of this land, an accomplished security professional, and a respected leader in the Nigeria Police Force — Deputy Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Usaini Gumel, psc, FIPMA, FSPSP. Deputy Inspector-General Mohammed Usaini Gumel is a seasoned and highly accomplished senior police officer whose career spans over three decades of exemplary service in intelligence-led policing, community policing, counter-terrorism coordination, and international peace support operations.His journey began with a solid foundation in education.

“He attended Government Secondary School Karaye, and later proceeded to the Advanced Teachers College, Gumel, affiliated with Bayero University Kano, where he obtained the National Certificate of Education. He subsequently earned a Bachelor of Education from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master of Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Minna.He commenced his professional policing career after undergoing training at the Nigeria Police Academy, Kano between 1992 and 1994, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service, discipline, and national security. Over the years, he served the Nigeria Police Force across several strategic commands and operational environments, including the Federal Capital Territory, Niger State, Kwara State, Sokoto State, and Kano State, where he distinguished himself through professionalism, courage, and dedication to duty.

“His leadership roles include serving as: Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Kano State Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Training and Development Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7 Abuja Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Community Policing. And ultimately, Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Department. As Commissioner of Police in Kano State, he confronted complex and evolving security challenges with strategic vision and firm leadership.

“Through intelligence-led policing and strong community engagement, he introduced innovative initiatives that not only enhanced public safety but also transformed the lives of more than 700 young individuals previously involved in criminal activities, redirecting them into productive and law-abiding citizens. Beyond national service, Deputy Inspector-General Gumel has made significant contributions to international peace and security.

“He served as Police Unit Commander in the United Nations Mission in Liberia, where his professionalism and leadership supported peacekeeping and post-conflict stabilisation efforts.He further served within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as Head of Police Component in the Peace Support Operations Division, contributing to regional security cooperation and stability across West Africa.

“His commitment to professional development is reflected in his participation in numerous international and specialised training programmes, including: • Terrorist Financing Investigation Course at the United Kingdom Metropolitan Police, London • Training at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Ghana • Peacekeeping courses at the École de Maintien de la Paix, Mali • Training of Trainers Programme with the North Rhine-Westphalia State Police, Germany • Specialized law enforcement training at the International Law Enforcement Academy, Botswana • Exercise Planning Course facilitated by NATO Allied Joint Force Command • Training at the UN Integrated Mission Training Centre, Liberia • And advanced intelligence courses at the Nigerian Army Intelligence School, Apapa Lagos. In recognition of his professionalism and international collaboration, he received a commendation from the United Kingdom Metropolitan Police Service for his role in supporting cross-border policing and international investigations.

“Throughout his distinguished career, Deputy Inspector-General Gumel has remained a strong advocate of community-oriented policing, institutional professionalism, and ethical leadership, contributing significantly to strengthening public trust in the Nigeria Police Force. His service has been recognised through numerous awards and honours, including: • Community Policing Advocate of the Year (2024) • Security Achievers Award of Excellence (2023) • Epitome of Good Leadership Award • Award of Integrity and Zero Tolerance for Corruption by the EFCC • Award of Excellence in Policing and Security Governance • As well as multiple commendations from government institutions and civic organisations. He is a graduate of the Police Staff College, Nigeria (psc), a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators (FIPMA), a Fellow of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice (FSPSP), and a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, the career of Deputy Inspector-General Mohammed Usaini Gumel stands as a powerful testament to discipline, integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the service of our nation. Today, as he marks this remarkable milestone of Thirty Years of Honour, Faith and Service, we celebrate not only his rank and achievements, but also his enduring contributions to national security, community development, and international peace.It is therefore with great pride and honour that we recognise and celebrate a distinguished officer, a committed public servant, and a worthy son of the Gumel Emirate—Deputy Inspector-General of Police -Mohammed Usaini Gumel, psc, FIPMA, FSPSP.”

Among those who graced the occasion personally or through their representatives are: Special Guests of Honour, Excellency Mallam Umar Namadi, FCA, Executive Governor of Jigawa State and; Excellency Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, Executive Governor of Kano State; His Royal Highness, Dr Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, CON, Emir of Gumel; Distinguished Senator Babangida Hussaini, Representing North-West Senatorial District, Jigawa State; Maigirma Walin Kazaure, Hon Member of the Federal House of Representatives, and Sardaunan Kasar-Hausa, Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa; AIG Zone 1 Kano – AIG Ahmed Garba; AIG Zone 9 Benin – AIG Salman Dogo Garba; AIG Ibrahim A Abdullahi (rtd) serving and retired Commandants Police College Maiduguri, AIG Mu’azu Usman; Commissioner of Police, Jigawa State – AIG Dahiru Muhammad; Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command –Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori; Hon Commissioner Federal Character Commission- Alhj Lawan Ya’u Roni; Hon Commissioner Federal Civil Service Commission- Amb. Aminu Nabegu; Hon Bappa Babba DanAgundi – DG National Productivity Centre, among many other dignitaries.