By Festus Fifen

The Nigeria Inspector-General of Police IGP Olukayode Egbetokun on Tuesday charged newly promoted senior officers to see their new ranks as a call to serve with wisdom, restraint, and courage, insisting that authority in the Nigeria Police Force must be exercised as a purpose-driven trust that strengthens public confidence.

Speaking at the decoration ceremony held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Egbetokun said advancement in rank must represent not just privilege but purpose reminding the officers that their leadership will set the tone for discipline, professionalism and morale across the Service.

He urged the appointees to lead with fairness, act with integrity, and keep justice as their guiding light both within the Force and in public service. “Leadership at this level demands equity, justice, and fairness—the enduring values that define true authority,” he said.

Congratulating the officers, the IGP described their elevation as the product of dedication, consistency and commitment to discipline, integrity and patriotism. He said the ceremony affirmed the strength of the institution, the fairness of its processes and the courage of those who have served faithfully.

Addressing recent criticism, Egbetokun dismissed claims of a promotion scandal, including in the accelerated exercise conducted months ago, saying all promotions under his administration have been transparent, merit-based and in strict conformity with established standards. “Truth stands taller than rumours,” he said. “The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend… Promotions today are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline—there is no place for favouritism, nepotism, or tribal sentiment.”

He added that the Force would not be swayed by “mischief makers” seeking to undermine its integrity, asserting that a merit-driven career management philosophy motivates excellence, strengthens morale and renews public trust.

The event marked the formal decoration of newly elevated senior officers, which the IGP framed as both recognition of distinguished service and a renewed mandate to uphold the values that underpin policing in Nigeria.