The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 27 senior police officers.
This includes 11 commissioners elevated to the rank of Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs) of Police and 16 deputy commissioners promoted to substantive commissioners.
The announcement came on Monday after rigorous assessments.
The newly promoted officers faced both written and oral examinations before earning their new ranks.
Chairman of the PSC, retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hashimu Argungu, emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards.
He noted that the written and oral examinations would now be a requirement for all police promotions.
According to Argungu, this step will ensure that Nigeria’s police officers are equipped with modern skills.
“The Nigeria Police Force must deliberately align itself with global best practices,” Argungu stated.
He added that officers should focus on improving themselves, especially in ICT proficiency.
The list of promoted officers includes top police commissioners from critical state commands.
Prominent among them is Umar Shehu Nadada, the Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State.
Also on the list is Mustapha Mohammed Bala, the Commissioner of Police for Rivers State.
Abayomi Peter Oladipo, who has served as Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, was also promoted.
Taiwo Olatunde Adeleke of SWAT, FCID Abuja, was recognized for his role in Abuja’s security operations.
Another officer on the list is Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Commissioner of Police for Kaduna State.
Nwonyi Polycarp Emeka, the CP of PPP, DLS at Force Headquarters in Abuja, was similarly promoted.
The list of AIGs also includes:
- Akinwale Kunle Adeniran, Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State;
- Zubairu Abubakar, CP in Courses, Police Staff College, Jos;
- Fom Pam Joseph, CP of Homicide, FCID Abuja;
- Emuobo Fred Ekokotu, CP Admin, Airwing Abuja;
- Garba Musa Yusuf, Deputy Commandant, Police Staff College, Jos.
Their promotions reflect outstanding service and dedication to duty across Nigeria.
The PSC’s decision has been applauded as a major boost for the Nigeria Police Force.
Security experts described the move as a positive step toward strengthening law enforcement.
A security analyst, Emmanuel Akintola, said, “These promotions will inspire younger officers to strive for excellence.”
He also highlighted the importance of the written and oral tests introduced by the PSC.
According to him, the examinations will foster merit-based advancements in the police system.
The PSC Chairman further urged officers to take professional development seriously.
He noted that modern policing requires digital skills, leadership abilities, and global awareness.
Meanwhile, the promotion of 16 deputy commissioners to substantive commissioners has also been welcomed.
These officers will assume critical roles in various state commands and departments across the country.
The PSC stressed that promotions would no longer be treated as routine.
Argungu reiterated that every officer must prove their worth before earning higher ranks.
“We want a police force that can compete globally,” Argungu said.
He further assured Nigerians that the PSC would maintain transparency in the promotion process.
This development comes at a crucial time for the Nigeria Police Force.
The country has faced significant security challenges in recent years.
Observers believe that promoting senior officers will boost morale and enhance security operations.
A retired officer, Bala Abubakar, described the promotions as “timely and well-deserved.”
He added, “These officers have served diligently, and their new ranks will help them make even greater contributions.”
The Nigeria Police Force continues to face pressure to modernize and improve performance.
The PSC’s decision to prioritize written and oral examinations has been praised as a step toward professionalism.
As Nigeria grapples with issues of insecurity, the promotion of these officers sends a strong signal.
It shows that excellence and hard work will be rewarded in the force.
The PSC Chairman urged the newly promoted officers to see their new ranks as a call to greater service.
He reminded them that the country relies on their leadership to tackle crime and insecurity.
“Your promotion is not a privilege but a responsibility,” Argungu stated.
The ceremony, held at the PSC Corporate Headquarters, marked a new era in police promotions.
For the 11 new AIGs and 16 commissioners, the journey to the top has been demanding.
