Nigerian Correctional Service Promotes 16,582 Officers

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has carried out one of the largest promotion exercises in its history, elevating 16,582 officers across senior and junior cadres nationwide.

The promotions were announced in an official statement released on Wednesday, marking a significant career milestone for thousands of personnel within the Service. The exercise cuts across multiple ranks and commands, reflecting a broad-based effort to reward service, professionalism, and institutional growth.

According to the NCoS, the promotions were approved under the 2025 Senior and Junior Officers Promotion framework by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB). Officers promoted span roles from Controllers of Corrections to Inspectors, covering personnel across custodial formations in the country.

Of the total number promoted, 11,417 officers advanced within the senior cadre, while 4,253 junior officers moved up to higher ranks. The Service also confirmed that educational advancement played a role in several promotions, with officers benefiting from academic upgrades and conversion programmes.

Later in the process, additional details emerged on how the promotions were structured.

Inside the promotion breakdown and special recognitions

The statement revealed that 128 junior officers were elevated to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Corrections after acquiring relevant academic qualifications. In another category, 89 Correctional Assistants were moved into the Inspectorate cadre following the completion of Diploma and NCE programmes.

A further 689 Chief Correctional Assistants were converted to Inspectors of Corrections after successfully completing mandatory conversion courses. Beyond these, six officers received special promotions, while five others were elevated to the rank of Senior Correctional Assistant in recognition of outstanding conduct and dedication to duty.

One of the standout beneficiaries was Olukemi Ibikunle, who was promoted to Assistant Controller of Corrections. She was also recognized as a recipient of the United Nations Trailblazer Award, an honour linked to her contributions and impact beyond national borders.

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Speaking during the decoration ceremony, the Secretary of the CDCFIB described the promotion exercise as a reflection of the government’s commitment to merit-based advancement and institutional discipline. Newly promoted officers were urged to uphold professionalism and justify their new ranks through improved service delivery.

The Controller-General of Corrections also used the occasion to issue a firm warning against misconduct, stressing that inappropriate behaviour, particularly involving inmates, would not be tolerated. He further directed commands nationwide to strengthen security measures during the festive period to safeguard facilities, personnel, and the public.

The promotion exercise follows similar efforts in recent years aimed at clearing backlogs and strengthening morale across security agencies under the Ministry of Interior.