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| Nigerian Police Commission Approves Promotion of 951 Officers from ASP to DSP Rank |
The Nigerian Police Commission has approved the promotion of 951 officers from ASP to DSP rank. See details of the officers, PSC approval, and implications.
Over 900 Nigerian Police Officers Promoted in 2025
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 951 officers of the Nigeria Police Force from the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). The announcement was made in an internal police wireless message issued from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, and circulated across all formations in the country.
This development represents one of the largest promotion exercises within the Nigeria Police in recent years, signaling efforts to strengthen the leadership structure of the force.
Details of the Promotion Exercise
According to the internal memo titled “POLICE WIRELESS MESSAGE”, the promotions took effect from the dates indicated against each officer’s name. The signal, referenced SH.4730/FS/FHQ/ABJ/T.1/58, was dispatched to:
- All Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs)
- Commissioners of Police across all 36 states and the FCT
- Special police units including FCID, INTERPOL, MOPOL, Maritime, Airwing, Bomb Disposal, Border Patrol, and Terrorism Units
The PSC’s approval, contained in a letter dated 20th August 2025 (Ref: PSC/PROM/1/1096/II), followed recommendations by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Names of Some Promoted Officers
Among the promoted officers are:
- Maidawa Yakubu (AP126345)
- Edwin A. Thomas (AP129283)
- Chagga Yakubu (AP136869)
- Ofem Liket Hassan (AP130266)
- Sabo Danladi Mamuda (AP137436)
- Omini Dickson (AP134041)
- Bassey Alobo (AP132333)
- Enyinnaya Ejimadu (AP132430)
- Grace Dkon (AP132337)
The full list includes 951 officers across all states, reflecting a broad coverage of promotions at both command and specialized unit levels.
Significance of the Promotion for the Nigeria Police
The promotion of ASPs to DSPs is not just symbolic but also crucial for improving command efficiency within the police structure. With the new appointments:
- Officers gain increased responsibilities and authority in their commands.
- The promotions serve as motivation and recognition of years of service.
- It helps in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture by ensuring more experienced officers occupy key leadership roles.
Promotions Amid Police Welfare Concerns
Interestingly, this round of promotions comes amid rising criticism of the police force over poor welfare, corruption, and recruitment challenges.
- On July 21, 2025, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore led a protest in Abuja demanding better welfare for both serving and retired police personnel.
- The protest highlighted concerns over paltry pension payments to retired officers and inadequate welfare packages for active personnel.
- While the police leadership under IGP Kayode Egbetokun has set up committees to address these grievances, it has also moved to prosecute Sowore, alleging his protest could incite mutiny.
This dual approach of offering reforms through committees and promotions, while cracking down on dissent, reflects the complex dynamics within the Nigeria Police Force.
Reactions and Expert Opinions
Security analysts believe that while promotions are commendable, they do not fully address the root problems facing the Nigerian Police. Key concerns include:
- Low salaries and allowances compared to the risks officers face.
- Delayed pensions and poor retirement packages.
- The need for recruitment reforms to ensure transparency and meritocracy.
For long-term effectiveness, experts argue that promotions must go hand in hand with comprehensive police reforms, better funding, and improved welfare systems.
A Step Forward, but More Reforms Needed
The promotion of 951 police officers from ASP to DSP is a welcome development that boosts morale and strengthens the leadership chain within the Nigeria Police Force. However, without addressing underlying issues such as welfare, pensions, and transparency, the reforms may only scratch the surface.
For more updates on police promotions, official recruitment, and welfare reforms, visit the Police Service Commission official website and follow trusted sources like Premium Times Nigeria for credible news.
The promotions may mark progress, but Nigerians and stakeholders alike will be watching to see if deeper reforms follow.
