The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 684 senior police officers to various ranks in a move aimed at strengthening the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). This significant decision was made during the first plenary meeting of the new PSC board, reflecting the commission’s commitment to merit-based advancement within the force.
In a statement released on Friday by Ikechukwu Ani, the PSC spokesperson, it was confirmed that the promotions include eight Commissioners of Police who have been elevated to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), and 15 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) who have been promoted to Commissioners of Police (CPs).
“This promotion exercise is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force is led by highly qualified and competent officers,” Ani stated. “The officers promoted have demonstrated exceptional service, dedication, and leadership in their respective roles.”
Among the newly promoted AIGs is Adegoke Fayoade, who served as the Commissioner of Police in Lagos, one of the most challenging and high-pressure commands in the country. His promotion, along with that of his peers, underscores the PSC’s recognition of outstanding performance in the line of duty.
The Full List of Promotions
The eight Commissioners of Police promoted to AIG include:
- CP Benneth Igwe, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command
- CP Suleiman Mohammed Abdul, acting AIG, PAB, Force Headquarters, Abuja
- CP Augustina Nwuka Ogbodo, Ebonyi State Command
- CP Stephen Olanrewaju, Admin, Works, Force Headquarters, Abuja
- CP Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, Abia State Command
- CP Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha, Lagos State Command
- CP Adegboyega Funsho Adegboye, Admin, FID, Abuja
- CP Mohammed Bala Labbo, Communication DICT, Force Headquarters, Abuja
Additionally, the promotion list includes 15 Deputy Commissioners of Police elevated to the rank of Commissioners of Police. These officers will now assume greater responsibilities within the force, leading various commands and departments across the country.
The PSC also promoted 52 Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs), 525 Superintendents of Police (SPs) to Chief Superintendents, and 84 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) to Superintendents.
The promotion process was rigorous, involving comprehensive assessments and examinations. According to PSC Chairman, retired DIG Hashimu Argungu, this marks a shift towards a more merit-based system within the NPF. The PSC’s focus is now on ensuring that only the most qualified and capable officers ascend the ranks.
“We are committed to promoting officers based on their merit and performance,” Argungu said during the plenary session. “This ensures that the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force is composed of officers who are not only experienced but also prepared to face the challenges of modern policing.”
During the promotion announcement, DIG Argungu emphasised the importance of continuous learning and professional development for all police officers. He highlighted the need for the force to be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the complex security challenges facing Nigeria today, including insurgency, banditry, and other forms of violent crime.
“The challenges of 21st-century policing are evolving, and so must our officers,” Argungu noted. “It is crucial that we remain ahead of these challenges through continuous self-development, training, and knowledge acquisition.”
To align with this vision, Argungu announced that future promotions within the NPF would require officers to pass formal examinations, similar to those mandated by the Public Service Rules for federal civil servants. This initiative is expected to further enhance the competence and preparedness of officers across all ranks.
The PSC Chairman also called on the newly promoted officers to intensify their efforts in combating the various security challenges plaguing the country. He urged them to be proactive and deliberate in their approach to addressing issues such as insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality.
“We expect nothing less than total commitment from our officers, especially those in leadership positions,” Argungu stressed. “The safety and security of our nation depend on the effectiveness of our police force. These promotions are not just rewards but also a call to action to do more for the country.”
