The Federal Government has announced that President Bola Tinubu has promoted over 52,000 personnel across four paramilitary services in the Ministry of Interior within just two years. This move aims to address decades of career stagnation experienced by officers.
Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this announcement during the decoration of newly promoted senior officers at the Nigeria Immigration Service headquarters in Abuja. The promotions affect the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Fire Service (FFS).
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of a transparent and merit-driven promotion process, stating that many officers had previously retired without attaining positions they deserved due to irregular promotions. He highlighted that this administration’s reforms focus on fairness, merit, and inclusivity.
He explained that the promotion process involved independent examinations conducted by the Nigeria Army Resource Centre, ensuring that all appointments were based on merit and seniority. The federal character principle was applied to ensure inclusivity across geopolitical zones.
The minister praised President Tinubu for revitalizing the services by filling high-level vacancies promptly. He also outlined additional welfare interventions, including increased salaries and life pensions for retired officers.
In his remarks, Dr. Ngozi Odikpo, representing the newly decorated officers, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to national safety and security. He pledged loyalty and diligence in service.
The minister urged the agencies to rise to their responsibilities and be catalysts of change in their respective roles.
