By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The atmosphere at the Akwa Ibom State Police Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, was filled with pride and celebration on Monday as the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, decorated 24 newly promoted senior police officers in a colorful ceremony that underscored professionalism, integrity, and merit.
The event, held on November 3, 2025, was described by CP Azare as a “celebration of excellence and commitment,” recognizing officers who have demonstrated hard work, discipline, and loyalty to the Nigeria Police Force.
In his keynote address, the Commissioner noted that promotion in the Force is never automatic but earned through dedication and consistent performance.
“Promotion is not a routine exercise but a recognition of hard work, discipline, and devotion to duty,” CP Azare said. “It is also a reminder of the greater responsibilities that come with elevation.”
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, NPM, PhD, for transforming the promotion process through fairness, transparency, and merit. According to him, Egbetokun’s leadership has inspired a more motivated and professional police force across the nation.
“Under IGP Egbetokun, the Force has prioritized merit, fairness, and competence. What we are witnessing today is the fruit of those reforms — a reinvigorated and better-positioned police workforce,” he added.
Addressing the newly promoted officers, CP Azare congratulated them and reminded them that every new rank demands higher responsibility, renewed commitment, and exemplary conduct.
“The higher you go, the greater the expectations placed upon you,” he charged. “The people of Akwa Ibom State and indeed Nigeria look up to you to uphold the rule of law, protect lives and property, and lead with integrity.”
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to ongoing police reforms aimed at improving operational efficiency, accountability, and public trust. He emphasized the importance of community policing, intelligence-led operations, and inter-agency collaboration in maintaining Akwa Ibom’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s safest states.
He also appreciated the officers’ families for their sacrifices and moral support, noting that their encouragement plays a vital role in the officers’ success.
“Behind every dedicated officer is a supportive family whose sacrifices must not go unnoticed,” he said.
Among those decorated were CSP Maximus Sarah Oloto, CSP Juliana Oriji Okwe (O/C HR, Uyo Area Command), CSP Silvester Ujo Ikpa (SCID, Disaster), CSP Julius Chimobi Egbiri (2i/C CMU), CSP Okpo Nkoyo Emmanuel (O/C Cybercrime), CSP Victor M. Iyogun (Itu/Ibiono Area Command), SP Florence Bassey (Works Department), SP Peter John (26 PMF), and 17 others.
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, CSP Maximus Sarah Oloto expressed deep gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police and the Police Service Commission for their trust and recognition following a rigorous examination and vetting process. She also thanked CP Azare and the Command’s management team for their exemplary leadership and support.
“We are inspired by this promotion to serve with greater zeal, professionalism, and loyalty,” CSP Oloto said.
The ceremony concluded with group photographs, handshakes, and cheers, as CP Azare urged the officers to see their new ranks as “the beginning of a higher calling” rather than the end of their journey.
“Be humble, fair, just, and above all, committed to the oath you have sworn to uphold,” he advised.
The event reaffirmed the Akwa Ibom Police Command’s commitment to discipline, merit, and service excellence under the forward-looking leadership of CP Azare and IGP Egbetokun.
About The Author
