In a ceremony held on June 22, 2023, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Egbetokun Olukayode, bestowed new ranks upon several senior officers.
The announcement was made through a statement issued by CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer.
Amidst an atmosphere of jubilation from their loved ones, friends, and fellow professionals, these senior police officers were recognised for their dedication and promoted to higher positions.
The statement explained that the promotions were granted based on merit, extensive experience, years of devoted service, and academic achievements.
“This is sequel to the recent promotion approved by the Police Service Commission on the basis of merit, requisite experience, years of dedicated service and academic records,” the statement revealed.
A total of 38 Senior Police Officers received their new ranks during the event.
Among them were Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) Bala Ciroma and Frank Emeka Mba, mni.
Fourteen Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) were honoured, including AIGs Abubakar Lawal, fdc; Alhassan Aminu (Rtd.); Abdul Umar, psc, fdc; Williams Adebowale, psc(+), fdc; Shettima Zannah; Ebong Eyibio Ebong, psc, mni; Adepoju Ayinde Ilori; Okon Okon Effiong, fdc; Echeng Eworo Echeng; Susan Ukpanukiema Horsefall; Bankole Lanre Sikiru; Oladimeji Yomi Olanrewaju; Odama Paul Ojeka; and Shehu Sani Gwarzo.
Twenty-two commissioners of police were also included in the list of decorated officers.
The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodimma, the Executive Governor of Imo State; His Excellency Dr. Akon Etim, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State; Sen. Barau Jibrin, the Deputy Senate President, and other esteemed members of the National Assembly. Also present were IGP Usman Alkali Baba (Rtd.), defense attaches from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, the Force Management Team, serving and retired Senior Police Officers, families of the promoted officers, and other notable guests.
During the event, the Inspector-General of Police extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted officers.
He urged them to fulfill their new responsibilities in accordance with the rule of law and the expectations of the citizens.
The IGP emphasized the importance of demonstrating exceptional critical thinking skills, exhibiting sound professional judgment, and showcasing high levels of strategic management and operational capacity.
He reminded the officers that all their actions and decisions would be subject to scrutiny and accountability.