Overview
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) recruits new constables and other entry-level personnel through a competitive selection process, announced through its own recruitment portal and public notices, alongside separate routes for cadet (officer-level) entry through the Police Academy.
Who can apply
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens, generally aged between 18 and 25 years for constable-level entry (cadet/officer-level entry has its own age and qualification requirements), hold the minimum educational qualification set for the specific cadre (SSCE/O'Level for constable entry, a university degree for cadet/officer entry), and meet height, physical fitness and medical standards.
Exam pattern
Selection generally includes an online application and document screening, a computer-based test covering general knowledge, reasoning and English language, a physical/medical screening, and an interview, with exact structure set out in the specific recruitment announcement and entry cadre.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online only, through the Nigeria Police Force's official recruitment portal, within the window announced for that recruitment cycle.
After the exam
Candidates who pass all stages attend training at a police training college (or the Police Academy for cadet/officer entry) before being posted to operational police duty.
Preparation tips
Because constable-level and cadet/officer-level entry have different eligibility and exam content, confirming which cadre is being applied for before preparing avoids wasted effort on the wrong level's requirements.
Are applications for Nigeria Police recruitment free?
Applications are submitted through the official online recruitment portal; candidates should rely only on the official portal and be cautious of unofficial agents requesting payment.
What are the main entry routes into the Nigeria Police Force?
Constable-level entry through the standard recruitment process, and cadet (officer-level) entry through the Police Academy.