AIG Ogundele Joshua-Ayodeji, outgoing commissioner of police in Niger, has decorated three hundred and twelve newly promoted police officers in the command.

Two ACPs, six CSPs, four SPs, and 300 DSPs were decorated, sequel to the recent promotions released by the Police Service Commission.

Addressing the officers in Minna on Saturday, Mr Joshua-Ayodeji urged them to reciprocate the gesture by being more dedicated to their duties.

The CP said that their promotion called for more diligence and professionalism, adding, “to whom much is given, much is expected.

“Your new ranks should spur you to do more in the service of the nation, more commitment and hard work to make the Nigeria Police Force better,” he said.

Mr Joshua-Ayodeji also cautioned them against corruption and urged them to operate within the stipulated laws governing the force.

He said, “You must intensify efforts in tackling the security challenges in Niger. With this promotion, you have been challenged to address insecurity in the state and the country at large.

“You should be forthright, honest and dedicated to your service in protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens of this country and bring purposeful leadership to the force.”

The CP also urged the officers and men of the command to rally round one another and strive towards fighting crimes.

He lauded their courage and dedication, which he said all the promoted officers had exhibited in the discharge of their responsibilities.

“We believe that promotion is an incentive to encourage other officers to do more in terms of service to their fatherland.

“Those promoted have worked very hard in their respective fields and in their respective positions,” he said.

Mr Joshua-Ayodeji, who congratulated the officers, added that the promotion was for all personnel of the command, saying, ”the beneficiaries were promoted while others will also move up on the nominal roll.”

He added, “The higher the rank, the higher the responsibilities will be,” urging them to live up to expectations and redouble their efforts to justify the promotion.”

ACP Aliyu Akande, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, appreciated the commission, the IPG and the CP for his mentoring, leadership and guidance in the line of duty.

Mr Akande said that the promotion would spur them to do more in discharging their responsibility of protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.

(NAN)