IGP decorates 28 senior officers, charges them on integrity, public trust

Olukayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has decorated 28 senior officers newly promoted to the ranks of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) and Commissioner of Police (CP), urging them to lead with integrity, vision, and renewed commitment to public trust and accountability.

The decoration ceremony, held in Abuja on Monday, was described by the Police Chief as not just a ceremonial gathering, but a celebration of discipline, excellence, and professionalism.

Rgbetokun emphasised that the promotions were based strictly on merit and followed a transparent selection process.

“Your promotions were not arbitrary—they are hard-won achievements, the result of consistent merit, unrelenting dedication, and a clear demonstration of leadership capacity. Let there be no doubt: these elevations were earned”, he said.

Twelve officers were promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, while sixteen were elevated to Commissioners of Police.

The IGP cautioned that their new ranks come with greater responsibilities and expectations.

“Promotion must not be viewed merely as recognition of past efforts. It is, more importantly, a call to greater responsibility.

“You are now positioned to influence the tone and direction of policing across the country. This requires not just administrative competence, but moral authority and vision”, he added.

The Police chief underscored the importance of exemplary leadership, moral uprightness, and engagement with the public.

He stressed the need for them to uphold the values of courage, empathy, and transparency in both their public and private lives.

At a time when our society calls ever louder for justice and accountability, we must be seen to uphold these values with unwavering resolve. Your actions will shape perceptions of the Force and influence the course of policing in Nigeria”, he said.

The IGP also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to the welfare and professional development of officers across ranks.

He noted that merit-based promotion serves not only as a morale booster but as a vital component for institutional growth.

He extended his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, for his continued support of the Nigeria Police Force, stating that the President’s investments and reform efforts are already driving visible improvements in policing.

The IGP also commended the Police Service Commission (PSC), led by Hashimu Argungu, for its principled and transparent handling of the promotion process, which he said has further boosted public confidence in the Force’s internal systems.

The IGP noted that the ceremony was as much a celebration of the officers as it was of their families, who have stood by them through the challenges of policing.

Egbetokun encouraged the officers to rise to the occasion and embrace innovation and community engagement as key pillars of modern policing.

“Let your presence inspire confidence. Let your commands be havens of security. Let your leadership be felt not in fear, but in reassurance,” he said.

He expressed confidence that with collective effort, the Nigeria Police Force can be transformed into a modern, people-centred, and globally respected institution.