On Tuesday, Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), Chairman of the Police Service Commission, announced the abolition of special promotions within the Nigeria Police Force.
During a meeting with the executive members of the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria, Argungu stated that future promotions will be based on merit, determined by passing required examinations and meeting other basic criteria. He emphasized that special promotions are not recognized globally and affirmed that the Commission under his leadership would not support them.
Argungu mentioned that while the law permits accelerated promotion for officers who demonstrate exceptional skill in their duties, this process will be handled carefully to prevent misuse. He added, “Promotions will now be based on merit, including written exams and interviews. Officers who fail their promotion exams will remain at their current rank, and those who fail three times will be retired for incompetence.”
Expressing his pride in the Nigeria Police Force, which he served and retired from as a Deputy Inspector General, Argungu vowed to uphold the integrity of both the police and the Police Service Commission. “A policeman should be above suspicion, and country comes first. Even if I were to return, I would still choose to be a policeman. I will not let down either institution and will strive to ensure they are not disgraced,” he said.
Earlier, AIG Paul Ochonu (Rtd), Chairman of the Association, extended a hand of fellowship to the Commission and expressed loyalty to its leadership. He noted that the Association had been pleased with the appointment of both the National Security Adviser and the PSC Chairman, who are former policemen, and had hoped for a unified working relationship with the Inspector General of Police.