PSC Abolishes Special Police Promotions, Shifts to Merit-Based System

On Tuesday, the Police Service Commission (PSC) announced the abolition of special promotions for personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), effective immediately.

DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), Chairman of the PSC, made the announcement in Abuja during a meeting with a delegation from the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria. The details were provided in a statement by the Commission’s Spokesperson, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani.

According to the statement, Argungu, accompanied by DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), declared that the PSC would no longer endorse irregular promotion practices within the NPF. He emphasized that future promotions would be based solely on merit, determined by passing prescribed examinations and meeting other basic requirements.

“He stated that there is no such thing as special promotions anywhere globally and affirmed that the Commission under his leadership would not support such practices,” the statement read.

Argungu noted that the law allows for accelerated promotions for officers demonstrating exceptional performance, but these would be handled cautiously to prevent abuse. “Promotion will now be merit-based, involving written examinations and interviews. Seniority will no longer influence promotions. Officers who fail their promotion exams will remain at their current rank, and those who fail three times will be retired for incompetence,” he explained.

The Chairman also stressed that the PSC would no longer promote officers who cannot pass the prescribed written examinations. He requested the support of retired police officers, recognizing their experience as valuable in this new approach.

Argungu expressed his pride in the Nigeria Police Force, which he served and retired from as Deputy Inspector General. “A policeman must be above suspicion and prioritize the country. If I had to come back, I would choose to be a policeman again. I am committed to upholding the integrity of the Police Force and the PSC,” he said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Association, AIG Paul Ochonu (rtd), conveyed their support for the PSC leadership and expressed their hope for a unified working relationship with the Inspector General of Police.