The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, has decorated newly promoted officers of the Nigeria Police Force, describing their elevation as both a reward for dedication and a renewed call to service.
The decoration ceremony, which took place at the Command Headquarters in Calabar, followed the recent approval of promotions by the Police Service Commission upon the recommendation of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
Promotion as Recognition of Service and Sacrifice
Akahi News gathered that the promotion exercise saw two Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) elevated to the rank of Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs), four Superintendents of Police (SPs) promoted to the rank of CSPs, and one Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) promoted to the rank of SP.
Speaking at the ceremony, CP Afegbua congratulated the officers and described their elevation as well-deserved, noting that promotions within the Force are earned through discipline, commitment, and demonstrated professionalism. He urged the newly promoted officers to view the advancement not merely as recognition, but as a call to greater responsibility and service to the nation.
According to him, professionalism, respect for human rights, and dedication to duty must remain the guiding principles of the officers as they assume higher responsibilities within the Force.
IGP’s Earlier Decoration in Abuja
Akahi News learnt that the decoration in Cross River followed a similar ceremony held on December 23, 2025, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, decorated several senior officers, including the then Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) in Cross River State, who was elevated to the substantive rank of Commissioner of Police.
Observers noted that the move aligns with the ongoing efforts of the Nigeria Police leadership to boost morale and enhance operational effectiveness across commands nationwide.
Officers Pledge Commitment to Duty
Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, CSP Usani Arikpo expressed gratitude to the IGP, the Police Service Commission, and the management of the Cross River State Police Command for the confidence reposed in them. He assured that they would justify the trust by upholding discipline, professionalism, and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.
He further pledged the officers’ commitment to supporting the command’s mission of ensuring peace, safety, and security across Cross River State.
Sustaining Public Confidence in Policing
Akahi News gathered that the command reaffirmed its commitment to effective policing and sustained collaboration with members of the public to maintain law and order. The leadership stressed that promotions within the Force are part of broader reforms aimed at motivating officers and strengthening public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Analysts believe that such ceremonies, when backed by accountability and performance-based assessments, can significantly enhance morale and operational efficiency within the Nigeria Police Force.
As security challenges continue to evolve across the country, stakeholders say consistent leadership, professionalism, and community cooperation remain vital to achieving lasting peace.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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