The Federal Government has launched the 2025 promotion examinations for personnel in paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior, emphasizing a transparent and merit-based process.
Overseen by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Immigration, and Fire Services Board (CDCFIB), the initiative aims to eliminate favoritism and ensure only qualified officers ascend through the ranks.
At the launch on Wednesday, the Minister of Interior and CDCFIB Chairman, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, assured officers that promotions would be determined solely by competence.
He revealed that the ministry had partnered with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre to enhance professionalism and fairness in the process. Under the new system, officers seeking promotion from Controller to Assistant Controller General (ACG) or from ACG to Deputy Controller General (DCG) must pass an examination and meet a specified benchmark score.
“If seniority were the sole criterion for promotion, there would be no need for exams. The role of ACG or DCG carries significant leadership responsibilities. As a DCG, you should be competent enough to serve as a presidential appointee,” Tunji-Ojo said.
He stressed that years of service alone would not guarantee promotion, asserting that officers must demonstrate capability. “If you’ve served for over 30 years but cannot pass the exam, you will not be appointed,” he added.
The minister also called for an end to nepotism and political influence in leadership appointments, ensuring that every officer has an equal opportunity to rise based on merit.
“A son of a nobody should be able to reach the highest level without connections,” Tunji-Ojo concluded.
