By David Akinmola
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed a nationwide compilation and verification of inspectors eligible for promotion to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), in a move aimed at strengthening transparency and career progression within the force.
The directive, issued through the Force leadership, mandates all commands and formations of the Nigeria Police Force to compile an updated nominal roll of inspectors due for elevation to the next rank.
According to police authorities, the exercise is designed to ensure that only qualified and duly documented officers are considered for promotion, while eliminating discrepancies and irregularities that may have characterised previous processes.
A senior officer familiar with the development said the compilation would involve a thorough review of service records, years in rank, performance history and disciplinary status of affected personnel.
“The aim is to ensure fairness, accuracy and merit in the promotion process. Every eligible officer must be properly captured and verified,” the source said.
The move is also expected to address long-standing concerns among rank-and-file officers regarding delays and inconsistencies in promotion exercises within the force.
Analysts note that promotions within the police hierarchy are critical for morale, operational efficiency and institutional discipline, particularly in a security environment that demands high levels of professionalism.
The police leadership reiterated its commitment to reforms targeted at improving welfare, career development and operational effectiveness of personnel across the country.
Stakeholders within the security sector have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a step towards entrenching accountability and boosting confidence among officers.
They, however, emphasised the need for the process to be conducted transparently and within a defined timeline to avoid further backlog.
The compilation exercise is expected to be concluded within a specified period, after which a promotion board will review the list and approve qualified candidates for elevation to the rank of ASP.
Observers say the outcome of the exercise will be closely watched as part of broader efforts to reform and modernise the Nigeria Police Force.
