Nigerian Police Ranks And Symbols: An Official Hierarchy

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) is the principal law enforcement agency in Nigeria, with the authority to maintain public order, enforce laws, and protect lives and property across the country. With over 370,000 active personnel and a centralized command structure, the NPF operates under a well-defined ranking system. This structure ensures discipline, operational effectiveness, and chain-of-command integrity.

In this post, we provide a detailed breakdown of the Nigerian Police ranks and symbols, their responsibilities, and where each rank fits into the overall hierarchy.

Overview of the Nigerian Police Force

The Nigerian Police Force is under the control of the Nigeria Police Council and the Police Service Commission, both of which are overseen by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The rank structure in the Nigerian Police is divided into commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers.

Official Ranks in the Nigerian Police Force

Here is a comprehensive list of the Nigerian Police ranks, symbols/insignias, and their respective roles, starting from the highest to the lowest.

1. Inspector General of Police (IGP)

Symbol: Crossed tipstaves within a laurel wreath, with a national coat of arms.

Role:

• The IGP is the highest-ranking officer in the Nigerian Police.

• Appointed by the President on the advice of the Police Council.

• Oversees the entire operations, strategy, and administration of the NPF.

2. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG)

Symbol: Crossed tipstaves within a laurel wreath.

Role:

• Assists the IGP in managing operations and national-level policing activities.

• Oversees specific departments such as operations, logistics, investigations, etc.

3. Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG)

Symbol: Two crossed tipstaves within a laurel wreath.

Role:

• Commands police zones and supervises several state commands.

• Reports to the DIG and handles high-level administrative duties.

4. Commissioner of Police (CP)

Symbol: The Nigerian coat of arms with one star below.

Role:

• Heads police commands in each state.

• Coordinates operations, crime prevention, and command administration at the state level.

5. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP)

Symbol: The Nigerian coat of arms with two stars below.

Role:

• Assists the CP in running the state command.
• Supervises crime control units and ensures compliance with police protocols.

6. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)

Symbol: The Nigerian coat of arms with three stars below.

Role:

• Handles administrative tasks and internal security in police area commands.

• Manages operations involving several divisional officers.

7. Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP)

Symbol: One laurel leaf and a star.

Role:

• Heads larger police divisions or critical units like homicide or anti-kidnapping.

• Coordinates investigations and case management.

8. Superintendent of Police (SP)

Symbol: One laurel leaf.

Role:

• Directs the operations of police divisions.

• Ensures law and order are maintained within assigned jurisdictions.

9. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)

Symbol: Three stars in a line.

Role:

• Supervises day-to-day activities in police divisions or units.

• Provides operational support to the SP.

10. Assistant Superintendent of Police I (ASP I)

Symbol: Two stars.

Role:

• Conducts investigations, supervises junior officers, and leads patrol operations.

11. Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II)

Symbol: One star.

Role:

• Entry-level rank for graduate police officers after initial training.

• Assists in field operations and reports to senior officers.

Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks

These ranks are made up of officers who perform tactical and grassroots-level policing tasks.

12. Inspector of Police (IP)

Symbol: Three red chevrons.

Role:

• Leads police teams and operations in local divisions.

• Often in charge of patrol teams and field officers.

13. Sergeant Major (SM)

Symbol: A crown over three chevrons.

Role:

• Maintains discipline among junior officers.

• Handles parade drills and field supervision.

14. Sergeant (SGT)

Symbol: Three chevrons.

Role:

• Supports inspectors in crime prevention and law enforcement activities.

• Leads foot patrols and mobile units.

15. Corporal (CPL)

Symbol: Two chevrons.

Role:

• Performs duties such as arrests, investigation assistance, and report filing.

• May act as second-in-command in small patrol teams.

16. Constable

Symbol: One chevron.

Role:

• Entry-level rank in the force.

• Handles routine duties including patrols, manning stations, and supporting investigations.

Nigerian Police Recruit (Trainee)

Symbol: None (under training)

Role:

• Undergoes training at police colleges.

• On successful completion, gets promoted to Constable.

Summary Table of Ranks and Symbols

Importance of the Rank Structure

1. Discipline: Maintains order and accountability.

2. Chain of Command: Establishes clear lines of authority.

3. Career Progression: Provides a roadmap for promotions and responsibilities.

4. Specialization: Officers assume roles based on rank and experience.

How Promotions Work in the Nigerian Police

Promotions in the Nigerian Police Force are merit-based, taking into account:

• Years of service

• Performance and discipline records

• Exams and interviews

• Recommendations by superior officers

The Police Service Commission (PSC) is responsible for the promotion of officers from ASP to DIG, while the President appoints the IGP.

FAQs: Nigerian Police Ranks and Symbols

Q1: What is the highest rank in the Nigerian Police Force?

A: The highest rank is the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

Q2: What is the lowest rank in the Nigerian Police Force?

A: The lowest rank is Police Constable, while Police Recruit refers to trainees undergoing police training.

Q3: How many stars does an Assistant Superintendent of Police have?

A: ASP I has two stars, while ASP II has one star.

Q4: What is the difference between Commissioned and Non-Commissioned officers?

A: Commissioned officers (ASP and above) hold leadership and administrative roles. Non-commissioned officers (Inspector and below) carry out field and operational duties.

Q5: How long does it take to rise in rank in the Nigerian Police?

A: It varies based on qualifications, performance, and vacancy. Generally, an officer may need 3–7 years before moving up, depending on rank.

Q6: Are symbols and insignias worn on all uniforms?

A: Yes. Rank symbols are prominently displayed on uniforms, caps, and shoulder badges.

Q7: What rank does a university graduate start with in the Nigerian Police?

A: A university graduate begins as Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II) after completing training at the Police Academy.

Conclusion

Understanding the Nigerian Police ranks and symbols is essential for recognizing the command structure and appreciating the responsibilities of law enforcement officers. From the IGP down to the constable, every rank plays a vital role in ensuring safety and security in Nigeria.

As the NPF continues to reform and modernize, the rank structure remains a pillar of professionalism, discipline, and effective service delivery.