Odita Sunday 
In a move that signals renewed emphasis on performance-driven leadership within the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has promoted AIG Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha to the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG).
The decision, approved on Friday, February 20, 2026, followed what the Commission described as his exceptional performance in its written examination and oral interview.
DIG Fayoade, who joined the Force in 1992, brings more than three decades of distinguished service to his new role. Until his elevation, he served as Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Lagos, where he earned commendation for advancing community policing and leading strategic operations, including the dismantling of the notorious “Billionaires” Kidnapping Gang in Lagos.
Over the years, his career has been marked by multiple national and international recognitions, including the 2024 Crime Buster of the Year for West and Central Africa, Best Police Station in Africa awards (Nairobi, Kenya), Best Divisional Police Officer in West Africa (Johannesburg and Dubai), and the International Security Award from ISSO-SEC Switzerland and HSIIS United Kingdom.
Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), charged the new DIG to regard his promotion as a call to greater responsibility, expressing confidence that his expertise in technology-driven policing and stakeholder partnerships would further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
The Police Service Commission is the statutory oversight body for the Nigeria Police Force, responsible for appointments, promotions and disciplinary control of officers, excluding the Inspector-General of Police, and for formulating policies to enhance the Force’s efficiency and effectiveness.
With the elevation of DIG Fayoade, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to merit-based advancement and institutional strengthening within the nation’s policing system.
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