The Federal Government has kicked off the 2025 promotion examinations for personnel in paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior, pledging a transparent and merit-driven process.
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Immigration, and Fire Services Board is overseeing the exercise, which aims to eliminate favouritism and ensure that only qualified officers ascend the ranks.
Speaking at the launch of the exercise on Wednesday, the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the CDCFIB, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, assured officers that promotions would be strictly based on competence.
He disclosed that the ministry had partnered with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre to enhance professionalism and fairness in the process.
Under the revised system, officers seeking elevation from Controller to Assistant Controller General and from ACG to Deputy Controller General must pass an examination and attain a benchmark score.
“If seniority were the only factor for promotion, there would be no need for examinations. Moving into the rank of ACG or DCG comes with serious leadership responsibilities. As a DCG, you should be competent enough to be a presidential appointee,” Tunji-Ojo said.
The minister emphasized that years of service alone would not guarantee promotion, insisting that officers must demonstrate capability.
“If you have spent over 30 years in service but cannot pass an exam, you will not be appointed,” he added.
He further stressed the need to eradicate nepotism and political influence in leadership appointments, maintaining that every officer should have an equal opportunity to rise through the ranks.
“A son of a nobody should be able to reach the highest level without knowing anybody,” Tunji-Ojo said.
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