The Police Service Commission (PSC) has opened applications for the recruitment of 50,000 constables, marking one of the largest single police recruitment exercises in Nigeria’s recent history.
The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a nationwide security emergency on 26 November.
The President had directed security agencies to expand their personnel strength to address rising violent crimes and restore public confidence in policing.
In a statement issued Thursday by its Head of Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Kalu, the PSC said the recruitment portal would be open from 15 December 2025 to 25 January 2026.
According to the Commission, the new intakes will form a key component of the government’s plan to deepen community policing and improve Nigeria’s internal security architecture.
“For the General Duty cadre, applicants must possess GCE Ordinary Level, SSCE/NECO or equivalent qualifications with at least five credits, including English and Mathematics, obtained in no more than two sittings,” the statement said.
Candidates applying for specialist positions must have a minimum of 4 credits, including English and Mathematics, and at least 3 years of experience, along with relevant trade certifications.
All applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth. General Duty applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old, while specialist applicants may be up to 28. The minimum height requirement is 1.67 metres for men and 1.64 metres for women.
Mr Kalu said applications would be submitted exclusively through the online recruitment portal.
President Tinubu has repeatedly argued that improving the numerical strength of the police is central to reversing worsening insecurity across various parts of the country.
Security analysts, however, say expanding the force must be complemented by reforms in training, welfare, intelligence gathering, and operational equipment.
The PSC said the recruitment exercise would follow “strict merit-based procedures” to ensure that the force attracts qualified and competent personnel.
