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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has charged newly promoted senior police officers to harness technology, empower their personnel, and innovate to stay ahead of criminals, saying that their success would directly shape the Force’s reputation and public trust.
This is just as the IGP, has described the rumors making the rounds over alleged promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as fake news. He said every promotion exercise conducted under his leadership as IGP, including the recent accelerated promotion for some deserving officers did not only follow die prices but transparent, merit-based and conformed strictly with established standards.
Egbetokun, made this known when he decorated 19 newly promoted senior police officers with their new ranks in Abuja,
The newly promoted officers include Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Mohammed Dan-Kwara, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Nkechi Eze, Force Medical Director, and Commissioner of Police Nandel Gonwalk.
The IGP, who described the promotion scandal as unfounded, said it is aimed at tarnishing the image of the Force by mischief makers to discredit the promotion process in the force. He said the police under his leadership will not be distracted by falsehoods or propaganda.
He said “In recent months, certain individuals have attempted to cast shadows on the credibility of our promotion process, particularly the accelerated exercise conducted a few months ago.
But truth stands taller than rumours. The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend,”.
“We will not be swayed by those who trade in falsehood or seek to undermine the integrity of our institution.
He said Every promotion exercise under this administration has followed due process — transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards,”.
The IGP, said “There is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force. What we have is a system that rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity.
“Our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering. Promotions today are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline.
“There is no place for nepotism or sentiment. This remains the cornerstone of our career management philosophy, which motivates excellence, strengthens morale, and renews public trust in the Force we proudly serve.”
‘Promotion Is a Call to Higher Responsibility’
While congratulating the newly promoted officers, the IGP, said their elevation is a testament to excellence, integrity, and dedication to service.
“Today, we celebrate not just advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force,”.
“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.”
Egbetokun urged the officers to see their promotion as a call to greater responsibility, leadership, and accountability.
“Leadership at this level demands equity, justice, and fairness — the enduring values that define true authority and inspire confidence within and beyond the Force,” he stated.
“Your actions will set the tone for discipline, professionalism, and morale across the service. Lead with fairness, act with integrity, and let justice be your guiding light in your service to the public.”
‘Embrace Technology and Intelligence-Led Policing’
While urging the senior officers to adapt to the changing landscape of crime and to leverage technology in policing, the IGP, said
“The landscape of crime is evolving, driven by technology, complexity, and global trends. Nigerians expect a police force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to communities,” he said.
“I therefore charge you to fully embrace the philosophy of community policing and the practice of intelligence-led policing as you take on your new commands.”
