Nigeria Sets Merit, Equity As Priorities In 50,000 Police Recruitment

The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Thursday convened a high-level meeting in Abuja to refine the framework for recruiting 50,000 police officers, driving efforts to ensure a transparent and merit-based process for the Nigeria Police Force.

The session, held at the PSC headquarters, brought together representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Federal Character Commission to strengthen guidelines for a recruitment exercise expected to shape the future capacity of the Force.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya, led the ministry’s team and expressed the ministry’s readiness to support the process.

Key resolutions from the meeting include, “Strict adherence to the Federal Character principles as enshrined in the Constitution to ensure equitable representation across all states and geopolitical zones.

“A strong emphasis on gender inclusivity, with deliberate measures to encourage and facilitate the recruitment of qualified female candidates.

“Assurance of a transparent, technology-driven process that will be publicly accessible and free from undue interference.”

Stakeholders noted that these resolutions were built on an earlier inter-agency meeting held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, where participants committed to safeguarding the integrity of the recruitment exercise and strengthening national unity through fair representation.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), represented by DIG (Dr) Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to an “inclusive recruitment model aimed at boosting both the strength and diversity of the Nigeria Police Force.”

The Commission also assured applicants and the general public that the exercise will follow strict accountability standards and comply fully with existing laws and guidelines.

According to a statement by the Head of Protocol & Public Affairs, PSC Torty Kalu, further updates and timelines for the recruitment process will be communicated as preparations advance.