The decoration ceremony, held on Tuesday, involved two Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, DIGs, 10 Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, AIGs, and 17 Commissioners of Police, CPs.
Speaking at the event, Disu reminded the newly promoted officers that promotion should not be seen merely as an achievement or reward but as an opportunity to shoulder greater responsibilities.
He stressed that higher ranks come with increased expectations and accountability, noting that the officers would be closely monitored by their subordinates, the communities they serve and the Nigerian public.
On integrity, he called for zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of office and indiscipline, urging the officers to lead by example rather than impose standards they were unwilling to uphold.
“Do not preach discipline while practicing indiscipline. Your subordinates must see in you the best of the force,” he stated.
The police chief also emphasised the importance of mentoring younger officers and ensuring the welfare of personnel under their command.
He encouraged the senior officers to identify and develop promising junior officers, while treating those serving under them with care and respect.
According to him, the quality of officers they nurture and leave behind would be an important measure of their leadership success.
“The true measure of your leadership will not be only what you achieve during your tenure, but the quality of officers you leave behind,” Disu said.
On public trust, the IGP urged the newly promoted officers to play active roles in transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a professional, accountable, intelligence-led and people-oriented institution.
He explained that public confidence could only be earned through fairness, respect for human rights and prompt responses to the needs of citizens.
“Trust is not built in speeches; it is built at the counter, on the road, and in the community through fairness, respect for human rights, and a prompt response to the needs of the people. After all, they say the definition of policing is protection of human rights,” he added.
To ensure the new responsibilities translate into measurable results, Disu directed each of the promoted officers to submit a strategic plan for their respective commands, departments, formations or offices within 90 days.
He said the plans must contain clear and measurable targets covering integrity, personnel welfare and public trust, in line with the specific responsibilities of each officer.
The IGP assured the officers that he would personally review the submissions and monitor their implementation.
Disu also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of the newly promoted officers, recognising the challenges associated with police service, including long working hours, distant postings and missing important family occasions.
He noted that the sacrifices of their loved ones often go unnoticed despite playing a significant role in supporting their careers.
The police chief urged the officers to share the moment of celebration with their families, stressing that the achievement also belonged to those who had stood by them throughout their professional journeys.
