In a significant step towards rewarding merit and strengthening morale within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, will on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, decorate distinguished officers recently approved for accelerated promotion by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
This development, according to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, is in line with the IGP’s institutional commitment to recognizing and promoting excellence among police officers who have demonstrated exceptional conduct, courage, and character in service to the nation.
Among the honourees are CSP Shaba Aliyu, named Police Officer of the Year 2023, who has been promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (effective from December 31, 2023), and SP Sentome Obi, Police Officer of the Year 2024, now promoted to Chief Superintendent of Police (with effect from December 31, 2024).
These promotions are part of the Force’s new policy initiative, earlier announced in Press Release No. CZ:5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/472, issued on July 25, 2025. The policy commits to recommending for promotion any officer who wins two national police awards in two consecutive years or receives two IGP commendations over the same period.
"This is not just a routine promotion exercise. It is a bold endorsement of integrity and commitment to service," DCP Adejobi said. "These officers chose the harder right, rose above mediocrity, and showed Nigerians what true policing should represent."
Also benefiting from this wave of promotions are officers who have won national awards twice in the last two years, as well as staff officers at the IGP Secretariat who have received multiple commendation letters for exemplary service
To underscore the significance of the occasion, IGP Egbetokun has ordered the deployment of the police jet to convey both honourees, ACP Shaba Aliyu and CSP Sentome Obi, to Abuja for their formal decoration ceremony, which will take place at 12 noon at the IGP Smart Conference Room, Force Headquarters.
In addition, the photographs of both officers—praised for embodying the ideals of courage and honesty—have been prominently displayed at the main entrance of the Force Headquarters. The IGP has further directed that their portraits be showcased at all Zonal and State Command Headquarters.
“This is what institutional pride looks like. This is how we build trust—from within,” the Force PRO added.
He reiterated that under the current leadership, the Nigeria Police Force remains firmly committed to promoting professionalism and honouring those who serve with distinction.
“To our officers nationwide,” the statement concluded, “your sacrifices are seen. Your integrity will not go unnoticed. Excellence will be celebrated—and promoted.”
