Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo pledged federal support for Nigeria’s security forces during promotion exams this week.
He praised the rigorous assessments, calling them vital for national safety.
Officials from the Nigeria Army Resource Centre supervised rigorous testing, ensuring merit-based advancements in four paramilitary agencies. The exercises aimed to strengthen preparedness against rising threats.
Tunji-Ojo reviewed evaluations with Major General Garba Wahab (retired), discussing strategies to strengthen operational readiness nationwide. Both agreed on prioritizing modern training and accountability.
The Nigeria Immigration Service, Civil Defence Corps, Federal Fire Service, and Correctional Service underwent assessments to boost crisis response capabilities. Each agency’s role remains critical.
These reforms align with President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, prioritizing institutional upgrades and enhanced security infrastructure nationwide. Public confidence hinges on tangible results.
Security analyst Dr. Ahmed Bello praised the initiative, calling it vital for tackling nationwide insurgency and banditry. He urged sustained investment in personnel development.
During a press briefing, Tunji-Ojo stressed meritocracy, declaring promotions must prioritize competence over connections. He pledged to dismantle corruption stifling professional advancement.
Additionally, the Ministry announced collaborative drills with military units to strengthen emergency coordination. Such partnerships aim to optimize rescue missions and intelligence exchanges.
Meanwhile, paramilitary staff acknowledged transparent evaluations but demanded better welfare packages. An NSCDC officer anonymously noted, “Fair promotions require livable wages.”
Furthermore, Fire Service personnel highlighted delays from outdated equipment during recent assessments, urging immediate upgrades to improve response efficiency.
The Minister acknowledged these gaps, promising swift upgrades to enhance firefighting efficiency.
Correctional Service officers stressed overcrowding challenges, urging infrastructure expansions. Tunji-Ojo assured reforms to modernize facilities and improve inmate rehabilitation programs.
Civil Defence Corps leaders proposed community outreach to build trust in conflict zones. Early warning systems could curb kidnappings and vandalism, they noted.
Immigration officers advocated advanced border surveillance tech to combat smuggling and trafficking. The Minister hinted at drone deployments and biometric systems in coming months.
Concluding his address, Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed commitment to safeguarding citizens: “We’ll equip our forces to protect lives, dignity, and prosperity.” Public applause followed his resolve.
Critics, however, demand faster implementation, citing past unfulfilled promises. “Accountability timelines must accompany these plans,” insisted human rights advocate Amina Yusuf.
As dusk fell, attendees left hopeful yet cautious. For Nigeria’s security landscape, these exams symbolize progress—but lasting change requires consistency, resources, and public oversight.