Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, has reaffirmed that promotions within the Nigeria Police Force are determined solely by merit and professionalism, rejecting any suggestion of a promotion scandal.
Egbetokun made the remarks in Abuja on Tuesday during a ceremony to decorate newly promoted senior officers. He stressed that the Force’s promotion system rewards “diligence, competence, and proven capacity,” not connections or favouritism.
“Our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering,” the IGP said. “Promotions will continue to be guided by performance, discipline, and integrity. There is no room for nepotism or sentiment.”
He described the event as both a celebration of excellence and a reaffirmation of trust in the institution’s internal processes.
“This ceremony embodies the strength of our institutions, the fairness of our systems, and the courage of those who have served with distinction,” Egbetokun said.
Congratulating the newly promoted officers, he reminded them that with higher rank comes greater responsibility. “The higher we rise, the deeper our duty to lead with wisdom, character, and courage,” he said.
Egbetokun also called on the officers to embrace innovation and intelligence-led policing, saying crime in Nigeria was becoming more complex and technology-driven.
“The public expects a police force that is smarter, more responsive, and closely connected to the people. I urge you to adopt community policing and make technology your ally in fighting crime,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that 923 officers were promoted in the latest round, following recommendations from the IGP to the Police Service Commission. Sixteen senior officers, including a Deputy Inspector-General, four Assistant Inspectors-General, and 11 Commissioners of Police, were decorated at the ceremony.
