The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Monday conducted a compulsory promotion examination for 30 senior police officers in Abuja, warning that officers who fail the test three times will face compulsory retirement.
The exercise, held at the PSC headquarters, involved one Assistant Inspector General of Police, two Commissioners of Police, 11 Deputy Commissioners, and 16 Assistant Commissioners. PSC Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Hashimu Argungu, described the exam as a permanent feature of police career progression.
“This exam is not going anywhere; it has come to stay. Any officer that fails it three times will have to go home. We can’t continue to carry people who are not competent,” Argungu said, emphasizing that the system aims to enhance standards and restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
Argungu added that promotion in the police force must reflect capacity and competence, noting, “The world has changed; it is a skill-driven era. If our officers want to rise, they must be ready to show capacity. Otherwise, we can’t justify promoting them.”
He further stated that the PSC is tightening procedures to prevent errors in promotions, ensuring no deceased or retired officer appears on promotion lists. Other PSC commissioners, including retired Supreme Court Justice Paul Adamu Galumje and retired DIG Taiwo Lakanu, were present during the examination.