The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, said the Nigeria Police Force had no promotion scandal but a system that rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity.
Egbetokun said this on Tuesday in Abuja during the decoration ceremony of newly promoted police officers.
He said the force would not be swayed by those who trade in falsehoods or seek to undermine the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering as promotions in the force will remain guided, solely by competence, performance, and discipline.
“There is no place for trepidation, nepotism, or clever sentiment. This remains the cornerstone of our career management philosophy because it motivates excellence, strengthens morale, and renews public trust,” he said.
Egbetokun said the decoration ceremony was not just for advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force.
“We mark not just promotion, but the reaffirmation of competence, trust, and integrity.
“This ceremony embodies the strength of our institutions, the fairness of our processes, and the courage of those who have served faithfully through the years.
“To our newly elevated officer, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. Your elevation is a product of dedication, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the values of discipline, integrity, and patriotism.
“Advancement in rank brings with it a new horizon of duty. The higher we rise, the deeper our responsibility to serve with wisdom, strength, and courage,” he said.
The I-G enjoined the senior officers to uphold the highest ethical standards and redefine policing in the discharge of their duties.
According to him, 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.
“I therefore charge you to fully embrace the philosophy of community policing, the practice of intelligence-led policing.
“As you take on your new commands and your new principles, harness technology, empower your personnel, and craft innovations that will keep our institution ahead of criminal enterprises,” he said.
Freedomonline reports that 923 officers were promoted in the current batch of promotion following recommendation of the I-G to the Police Service Commission.
Freedomonline also reports that 16 senior officers, consisting of one Deputy Inspector-General of Police, four Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and 11 Commissioners of Police were decorated by the I-G at the event.
