List of Police Ranks in Nigeria: A Complete Guide (2025 Updated)
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| List of Police Ranks in Nigeria |
Nigeria Police Rank Structure (Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers)
The ranks in the Nigeria Police Force are categorized into two broad classes: commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers.
1. Inspector General of Police (IGP)
The Inspector General of Police is the highest-ranking officer in the NPF. Appointed by the President of Nigeria, the IGP oversees all police operations nationwide and reports directly to the President. As of 2025, Kayode Egbetokun is the current Inspector General of Police.
2. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG)
DIGs are senior officers who assist the IGP in managing different departments such as Operations, Investigations, Training, and Logistics.
3. Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG)
AIGs supervise policing within various zones and commands. They report directly to the DIGs.
4. Commissioner of Police (CP)
Each state in Nigeria has a Commissioner of Police who oversees law enforcement activities in that state.
5. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP)
The DCP supports the Commissioner of Police in running operations within a state.
6. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)
An ACP coordinates tactical units and specialized teams under the direction of the DCP.
7. Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP)
This officer manages key administrative duties and often supervises several divisions.
8. Superintendent of Police (SP)
SPs lead operational teams and are responsible for implementing policies in local jurisdictions.
9. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
A DSP assists the SP and often heads specific investigations or departments within a division.
10. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)
An ASP is a fresh graduate of the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC) who is commissioned and placed in charge of operational teams or departments.
11. Inspector of Police
Inspectors are experienced officers who supervise a team of rank-and-file officers and enforce discipline and operational tactics.
Non-Commissioned Police Ranks in Nigeria
12. Sergeant Major
This officer is responsible for discipline among junior officers and acts as a liaison between ranks.
13. Sergeant
Sergeants command constables and are responsible for routine patrols and preliminary investigations.
14. Corporal
Corporals support Sergeants in executing their duties and have slightly more authority than constables.
15. Constable
The Police Constable is the entry-level rank. They perform basic duties like patrols, assisting in arrests, and traffic control.
Recruit Rank
16. Police Recruit
This is the initial rank for individuals undergoing training at the Police Training College or Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State.
Importance of Understanding Police Ranks
Understanding the hierarchy helps civilians know who to report to during emergencies, while also helping aspiring officers plan their careers. For instance, someone applying through the Nigeria police recruitment portal may begin at the constable level or, if attending the Police Academy, could start as an ASP.
Those interested in climbing the ranks must meet the necessary service duration, pass promotional exams, and undergo mandatory training programs.
Career Progression and Training
Many officers join via direct recruitment, but those wishing to fast-track their careers often apply to the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC). Graduates from the Academy are usually commissioned as ASPs, bypassing lower ranks.
The Ministry of Police Affairs plays a supervisory role in training, promotion policies, and welfare programs within the Nigeria Police Force.
Final Thoughts
The list of police ranks in Nigeria reflects a clear chain of command that ensures operational efficiency and accountability. Whether you're researching for career purposes or just want to understand the Nigerian security framework better, knowing these ranks provides clarity. If you're considering a career in law enforcement, monitor updates from the official Police Recruitment Portal for the latest opportunities and announcements.
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