The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Monday, July 28, 2025, decorated 28 newly promoted senior police officers, urging them to embrace innovative strategies and prioritize community engagement in their policing efforts. The colourful ceremony took place at the Goodluck Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The decorated officers include 12 Commissioners of Police (CPs) who were elevated to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), and 16 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) who are now Commissioners of Police (CPs). These promotions were recently approved by the Police Service Commission (PSC) following the Inspector-General’s recommendations.

In his address, IGP Egbetokun highlighted that the promotion exercise was a key component of a broader welfare initiative under his leadership, which he described as the “fastest and most extensive wave of promotions” in the history of the Nigeria Police Force. He emphasized that the promotions were firmly anchored on principles of fairness and performance.

“These promotions are not just a recognition of past achievements, but a call to greater service,” the IGP stated. He charged the newly decorated officers, now in pivotal leadership roles, to adopt innovative strategies in discharging their duties. He specifically called for a renewed focus on strengthening community partnerships, actively working to gain public trust, and consistently upholding the fundamental human rights of citizens.

Egbetokun reiterated that the success of modern policing extends beyond operational effectiveness, asserting that it “rests not only on operational effectiveness but on public trust.” He urged the officers to exemplify ethical conduct, professional excellence, discipline, and integrity both within and outside their official capacities.

Among the newly promoted AIGs are Emmanuel Adegbola Aina, Enyinnaya Adiogu, Ronke Nurat Okunade, and Johnson Oluwole Adenola, while new CPs include Sheik Mohammed Danko, Abiola Reuben Olutunde, Charles Dike, and Victor Erivwode, among others.

The event was graced by various dignitaries, including Senator Oyewunmi Olalere, Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance; Rt. Hon. Obi Aguoda of the House of Representatives; Dr. Shuaib Belgore, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development; and Femi Mohammed Sheidu, Executive Secretary of the Police Trust Fund, alongside members of the Force Management Team, serving and retired senior police officers, and family members of the newly decorated officers.

The IGP’s charge underscores the Force’s commitment to transforming its operational framework and enhancing its relationship with the public, crucial steps in addressing contemporary security challenges across the nation.