"Tomorrow marks the commencement of police recruitment nationwide, according to Arase. He emphasizes that this recruitment is not just a routine exercise, but a way to safeguard the authority and credibility of the Police Service Commission (PSC) and to showcase the commission's competence. He explains to the PSC staff traveling for this task that they are not merely carrying out their duty, but they are also playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF)."

 

Story by Iyiola Ayomide

The recruitment process for Nigerians to join the Constable category of the Nigeria Police Force will commence tomorrow, Monday, January 8th, 2024, across the country.   

This will involve screening the physical and credentials of successful applicants after a six-week application period, in adherence to the Federal Character Commission's stipulations.    

Dr. Solomon Arase, CFR, the former Inspector General of Police and Chairman of the Commission, addressed the PSC staff at a pre-deployment briefing at the Commission's Parry Osayande Auditorium. He emphasized that this is not simply a Recruitment exercise, but rather a significant event that will have long-lasting effects.   

He stated that every decision and interaction will contribute to the overall narrative, shaping how the Commission is perceived and the legacy it leaves behind.   Additionally, he noted that the start of this exercise marks a pivotal moment in the Commission's existence, signaling a transformative chapter.    

The Chairman instructed the Staff to maintain professionalism and integrity and accept this duty, acknowledging that their actions will have an impact beyond the current circumstances.   

Additionally, he emphasized that as members of the Commission, they have been given a job that holds the significance of our nation's hopes for a fair and safe future.    

He highlighted the immense importance of this recruitment process, emphasizing that it is the first one conducted by the Commission since the landmark supreme Court ruling on July 20th, 2023 which confirmed the Commission's absolute authority and sole responsibility in recruiting for the Nigeria Police Force.    

Dr. Arase informed the assembled individuals that they are on the verge of a new era and it is their responsibility to guarantee that this endeavor sets a benchmark for future hiring processes.

He stressed to the employees of the Commission that the citizens of the country will carefully observe and analyze "every action we take, expecting our complete and unwavering devotion and loyalty to the concepts of equality and righteousness." 

 "He urged the Commission staff to demonstrate their utmost conduct, adhering to the strictest principles of discipline, integrity, and honesty."    

Arase stated that this is not merely a Recruitment exercise; it is a defense of the sacredness of our mandate and an exhibition of the Commission's capability in this crucial role.   

I encourage you to anticipate extraordinary challenges during this process.   With a staggering number of over 400,000 candidates passing through your stations, each putting forth reasons to join the Nigeria Police Force, the pressure will be immense.   

Keep in mind that you are the protectors of a procedure that not only carries inherent importance but also sets the stage for the upcoming recruitment of 30,000 individuals authorized by the present government.

Dr. Arase stated that, in order to improve the effectiveness and openness of the hiring process, the Commission will create a Situation Room at the PSC Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.    

The purpose of this designated area is to function as a center for addressing complaints, providing assistance, and storing important information.   

It will offer necessary technical and operational support to staff members in the field.   The Commission will soon announce the specific phone lines that the public can use to access the Situation Room during the entire operation.    

He stated that this initiative highlights the Commission's dedication to guaranteeing a strong, responsible, and seamless process.

"He cautioned that any employee found to be involved in questionable activities will be subjected to severe consequences," particularly in terms of soliciting or accepting money from applicants or their families.   

"Such behaviors go against the core values of honesty and fairness that our Commission strictly adheres to, and individuals implicated will be subjected to strict disciplinary actions, potentially including termination of employment."    According to the PSC Chairman, it is crucial for the staff to strictly comply with the utmost levels of professionalism and ethical behavior throughout the entire duration of the activity.    

The pre-deployment briefing was attended by Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Chairman of the Police Recruitment Board, and Dr. Ifeoma Adaora Anyanwutaku, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Commission, who gave their well-wishes.   

Mr. Ferdinand Ekpe, the Director of the Department of Police Recruitment, then administered a code of conduct to all the staff involved in the exercise.   

This highlighted the Commission Management's commitment to upholding standards.