...says Promotions in Police Symbolize Excellence, Integrity, and Renewed Commitment to Service
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has reiterated that promotions within the Nigeria Police Force are strictly determined by competence, performance, and discipline — not by favouritism, nepotism, or tribal sentiment.
Egbetokun made this assertion on Tuesday during the decoration ceremony of 16 senior police officers, including one Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), four Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), and eleven Commissioners of Police (CPs), held at the Goodluck Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
He emphasized that merit-based advancement remains the cornerstone of the Force’s career management policy, which, according to him, “motivates excellence, strengthens morale, and reinforces public trust in the institution we proudly serve.
Addressing recent criticisms of the police promotion system, the IGP dismissed allegations of irregularities in the accelerated promotion exercise conducted a few months ago.
“In recent months, some mischief makers have attempted to cast doubt on the credibility of our promotion process. But truth stands taller than rumours,” he said. “The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend. Every promotion exercise conducted under this administration has followed due process—transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards. There is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force.
Egbetokun reaffirmed that the current police leadership remains committed to fairness and integrity, vowing not to be distracted by false narratives.
“Our system rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity. We will not be swayed by those who trade in falsehood or seek to undermine the integrity of our institution,” he said.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, also described recent promotions within the Nigeria Police Force as a reaffirmation of excellence, integrity, and distinguished service rather than mere advancement in rank.
Egqbetokun said the event celebrates not just promotion but “the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force.”
He emphasized that the ceremony reflects the strength of the institution, the fairness of its processes, and the courage of officers who have served faithfully over the years.
“To our newly elevated senior officers, your promotion is the product of dedication, consistency, and unwavering commitment to discipline, integrity, and patriotism,” he said. “Every insignia worn at this level must represent not privilege but purpose — a reminder that authority is meaningful only when it uplifts the institution and strengthens public trust.”
Egbetokun charged the newly promoted officers to lead with equity, justice, and fairness, noting that true authority is defined by moral courage and accountability. He urged them to uphold the highest ethical standards and embrace innovation and intelligence-led policing to meet the evolving challenges of modern crime.
“The Nigerian people expect a Force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves. I therefore charge you to fully embrace the philosophy of community policing and the practice of intelligence-led policing,” he said.
The IGP expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support and visionary leadership, which he said has strengthened police operations and welfare. He also commended the Police Service Commission, led by DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), for its transparency and collaboration in promoting a merit-based system.
Egbetokun further noted that the new ranks represent an investment in the future of the Force, urging officers to demonstrate clarity of vision, firmness of purpose, and discipline in all their commands.
He also paid tribute to the families of the newly elevated officers, acknowledging their patience, prayers, and sacrifices as the unseen strength behind every success in policing.
“Together, we are building a modern, accountable, and people-focused Police Force—one that earns trust at home and respect abroad,” he said, congratulating the officers and urging them to continue serving with honour and dedication.
