The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has reaffirmed that all promotions within the Nigeria Police Force under his administration remain strictly merit-driven, transparent, and in line with established procedures.
He asserted on Tuesday during the decoration ceremony of newly promoted senior police officers, including Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and Commissioners of Police, held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
In his address, the IGP congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a reward for hard work, discipline, and dedication to service. “Today, we celebrate not just advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.
Egbetokun emphasised that leadership at senior levels of the Force comes with higher responsibilities and expectations. “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,” he stated.
Responding to recent allegations questioning the integrity of the Police promotion process, the IGP dismissed such claims as unfounded. “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,” he declared.
He further stressed that promotions are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline, with no room for favouritism, nepotism, or tribal bias. “Our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering. This remains the cornerstone of our career management philosophy,” he added.
The Police Chief also charged the newly promoted officers to embrace modern policing approaches through community engagement and intelligence-led operations.
“The Nigerian people expect a Force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” he said, urging commanders to harness technology and innovation to stay ahead of evolving criminal trends.
IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support towards enhancing police welfare and operational capacity. He also commended the Police Service Commission (PSC), led by its Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), for maintaining a transparent and collaborative promotion process.
Addressing the families of the newly promoted officers, the IGP lauded their sacrifices and support, describing them as “the silent strength behind every triumph.”
“Together, we are building a modern, accountable, and people-focused Police Force, one that earns trust at home and respect abroad,” Egbetokun concluded, congratulating the decorated officers and charging them to lead with fairness, integrity, and vision.
