The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to officers engaging in police promotion lobbying in Nigeria. This response comes after a spike in unofficial requests, which followed a recent batch of accelerated promotions approved for high-performing personnel.
Recent Promotions Followed Clear Criteria
The Force clarified that these promotions were not arbitrary. Instead, they recognized officers who had shown exceptional bravery, professional excellence, and dedication to duty. According to Force Spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, each promotion followed structured and standardized procedures.
“These officers met strict internal benchmarks,” Adejobi said. “The promotions weren’t favors. They were rewards earned through service and sacrifice.”
False Media Reports Spark Lobbying Attempts
After some media platforms inaccurately reported that promotions were widely available, many officers began sending lobbying messages to Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun and the Police Service Commission. This misinformation, Adejobi explained, created unrealistic expectations among the rank and file.
“This lobbying trend emerged due to misleading reports,” he noted. “Some officers assumed there was a general promotion window, which is false.”
Officers Advised to Avoid Unethical Influence
Adejobi stressed that lobbying for promotion contradicts the values of the Force. Therefore, any officer who tries to bypass official procedures risks facing disciplinary action.
Clear Warning from Police Leadership
“Promotion should come through merit, not backdoor efforts,” Adejobi stated. “The Force takes a strong stance against unethical lobbying. If you break the rules, you will face consequences under our service regulations.”
He also dismissed allegations from an unnamed platform that claimed the promotions were politically motivated. “Such reports only aim to tarnish the credibility of the Force,” he said.
IG Reaffirms Support for Ethical Advancement
Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun urged officers to stay committed to their duties. He reassured them that the system would reward excellence fairly.
“Your promotion will come if you continue to serve with integrity and distinction,” Egbetokun said. “Let this recent exercise motivate, not mislead.”
Conclusion: Promotions Must Reflect Merit
The Nigeria Police Force remains firm in its commitment to a merit-based promotion system. Officers must understand that police promotion lobbying in Nigeria goes against the core principles of professionalism and discipline. Ultimately, those who serve with honor will earn their rewards—without needing to cut corners.
