In an ongoing recruitment exercise, the Nigeria Police Force is set to enlist no fewer than 30,000 youths from a pool of over 400,000 applicants. Solomon Arase, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, confirmed this development in a statement on Sunday. Arase, a former Inspector General of Police, highlighted that the six-week application period attracted over 400,000 Nigerians interested in the police constable position.
The recruitment process is scheduled to commence on Monday, January 8, nationwide, with the screening of successful candidates, both physically and in terms of credentials. Arase emphasized the significance of this exercise, being the first conducted by the Commission since the Supreme Court Judgment in July 2023, reinforcing the Commission’s primacy and exclusivity in police force recruitment.
To enhance efficiency and transparency, a Situation Room is being established at the PSC Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja. Arase urged the Commission’s staff to uphold professionalism and integrity during the exercise, emphasizing the high standards of discipline, honesty, and ethical conduct.
At the close of the recruitment portal in December, it was reported that 416,270 youths had met the initial requirements, with successful applicants consisting of 315,065 for General Duty and 101,205 for the specialist cadre. Kaduna State led with 31,117 successful applicants, followed by Adamawa, Benue, Borno, Katsina, and Bauchi. The recruitment process is viewed as a crucial narrative, shaping the perception of the Commission and its legacy. Arase cautioned against any staff soliciting or collecting money from applicants, emphasizing potential termination of employment for such actions.