Nigeria Police Service Commission Abolishes Irregular Promotions

Speaking at a meeting with the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria, Argungu declared that promotions will now be strictly merit-based, contingent on passing prescribed examinations and meeting other fundamental requirements.

“There is no place for special promotions anywhere in the world,” Argungu stated. “Under my leadership, the Commission will not endorse such practices.” He underscored that, while the law permits accelerated promotions for officers demonstrating exceptional skill and performance, these will be administered with caution to prevent potential abuse.

In a significant policy shift, Argungu announced that seniority will no longer influence promotions. Officers who fail to pass promotion examinations will remain in their current ranks, and those who fail three times may face retirement for incompetence. “Promotion will now be based solely on merit, including written examinations and interviews,” he said.

The PSC Chairman called for the support of retired officers, whose experience he believes will be invaluable in this new era of merit-based promotions. “A policeman must be beyond suspicion,” Argungu remarked. “If I had to come back after death, I would still choose to be a policeman.”

AIG Paul Ochonu (rtd), Chairman of the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria, expressed support for the new direction, commending the collaboration between the PSC, the National Security Adviser, and the Nigeria Police Force. Ochonu emphasized the importance of a unified approach to enhance the force’s effectiveness and to better serve the public.

DIG Argungu, joined by DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), received the delegation, reaffirming his commitment to upholding the integrity and efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force under the PSC’s new merit-based promotion policy.