By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has reaffirmed the transparency and credibility of the Nigeria Police Force’s promotion processes, declaring that “there is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force.” He made the assertion on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, during the decoration ceremony of newly promoted senior police officers held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The ceremony marked the official elevation of newly appointed Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and Commissioners of Police. Addressing the gathering, the IGP described the event as “a celebration not just of advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force.”
Egbetokun commended the newly promoted officers for their dedication and consistency, emphasizing that their promotions were earned through discipline, integrity, and patriotism. “Your elevation is the product of dedication, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the values of discipline, integrity, and patriotism,” he said. “You have earned your place in this noble institution, and today’s ceremony affirms that your efforts have not gone unnoticed.”
Speaking firmly on recent criticisms surrounding the Force’s promotion process, the IGP dismissed the allegations as baseless, asserting that every promotion exercise conducted under his administration was transparent and merit-based. “Truth stands taller than rumours,” he declared. “Every promotion exercise conducted under this administration, including the accelerated promotion exercise 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 warned detractors seeking to discredit the institution, stating that the Force would not be distracted by falsehood or propaganda. “We will not be swayed by those who trade in falsehood or seek to undermine the integrity of our institution. Promotions in the Nigeria Police today are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline, there is no place for favouritism, nepotism, or tribal sentiment,” he stressed.
Charging the newly elevated senior officers to embody the highest standards of leadership, the IGP reminded them that every new rank comes with a greater burden of responsibility. “The higher we rise, the deeper our responsibility to serve with wisdom, restraint, and courage,” he noted. “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 further urged them to embrace modern policing strategies anchored on technology, intelligence, and community partnership. “The landscape of crime is evolving, driven by technology, complexity, and global trends. The Nigerian people expect a Force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” he said, charging the officers to fully adopt community policing and intelligence-led operations in their commands.
Egbetokun also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support to the Police Force, acknowledging his “visionary leadership that continues to enhance the operational capacity and welfare of the Nigeria Police.” He equally commended the Police Service Commission under the leadership of DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd) for its transparency, diligence, and collaboration in ensuring a merit-driven process.
Addressing the newly promoted officers directly, the IGP reminded them that their elevation was “not a reward for the past alone, it is an investment in the future of the Nigeria Police Force.” He urged them to be examples of discipline and moral courage, emphasizing that leadership is measured by impact rather than rank. “Promotion brings privilege, but also deeper scrutiny. You must inspire your teams to uphold discipline, professionalism, and trust,” he said.
In his closing remarks, the Police Chief extended appreciation to the families of the newly elevated officers, describing them as the “silent strength behind every triumph,” whose patience, prayers, and support sustain the service of their loved ones.
“Together, we are building a modern, accountable, and people-focused Police Force, one that earns trust at home and respect abroad,” Egbetokun concluded, urging the officers to make their leadership a beacon of integrity and progress for the nation.
