By Adewole Kehinde
“Elevate your self-worth first, before you reach out to the world in search of promotions; transformation starts within.” – Wayne Chirisa
In a time when Nigeria’s security institutions require not only reform but also morale revival, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken a commendable and strategic step through the recently concluded 2025 massive promotion exercise within the Nigeria Police Force.
As someone who has closely monitored the evolution of policing in Nigeria, I must express my deep appreciation for this timely and well-executed initiative.
For too long, stagnation and bureaucratic bottlenecks in career progression have plagued the morale of our officers, leaving many hard-working men and women of the Force feeling neglected and unrewarded.
Promotions had become more a matter of “who you know” rather than “what you’ve done.” But under IGP Egbetokun, a refreshing wave of meritocracy and fairness appears to be sweeping through the ranks, and it is worth celebrating.
The 2025 promotions, spanning various cadres and departments across the country, signify more than just rank elevation; they represent hope, recognition, and a new culture of rewarding diligence.
Officers who have put their lives on the line daily are now seeing that their sacrifices are not in vain. It is a clear message that the leadership of the Force values performance, loyalty, and professionalism.
IGP Egbetokun’s understanding of leadership is anchored not just in operational strategy but in human resource management. Promotions, when handled correctly, serve as a powerful tool for motivation, institutional stability, and operational effectiveness.
This year’s exercise has lifted morale and reinvigorated officers at a time when public confidence in law enforcement is at a delicate crossroads.
Critics may attempt to politicise or downplay this achievement, but the truth remains that what Egbetokun has done is to strengthen the backbone of the Force.
A motivated police officer is more likely to discharge duties with discipline, fairness, and effectiveness, qualities Nigeria desperately needs as we combat insecurity, banditry, cybercrime, and communal unrest.
I also commend the transparency with which the promotions were conducted. The absence of scandal, the attention to equity among states, and the prioritisation of long-overdue promotions have earned IGP Egbetokun the respect of officers and stakeholders alike.
Beyond the immediate morale boost, I urge the IGP to institutionalise this merit-based promotion system. Let it become a legacy that future police leadership must uphold. Let it be a turning point in how the Force is perceived internally and externally.
To the newly promoted officers: congratulations. Let your new ranks inspire greater dedication, professionalism, and service to the Nigerian people. And to IGP Egbetokun, thank you for your courage, foresight, and commitment to building a more motivated and dependable police force.
The 2025 promotion exercise is not just a bureaucratic action; it is a leadership statement. And it deserves our applause.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst and advocate for police reform and institutional development.
