How to Join the Nigerian Police Force as a Graduate

How to Join the Nigerian Police Force as a Graduate (2026 Guide)

Joining the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) as a graduate is one of the most respected and impactful ways to serve the nation. The police force plays a vital role in maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and ensuring national security.

If you’re a graduate who is interested in joining the Nigerian Police Force, this article explains everything you need to know — from qualifications, ranks, recruitment process, and training to career progression.

1. Overview

The Nigerian Police Force recruits graduates through the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Nigeria Police Recruitment Board, which oversee the enlistment of both constables and officer cadets.

Graduates typically join the Police through one of two main routes:

1. Cadet ASP (Assistant Superintendent of Police) — for degree or HND holders.
2. Cadet Inspector — for ND or NCE holders.

As a graduate, your main entry point is Cadet ASP, which places you directly in the officer cadre of the Nigerian Police Force after training.

2. Categories of Police Recruitment

The Police recruitment is usually conducted under three main categories:

1. Police Constable Recruitment – For SSCE (O’level) holders.
2. Cadet Inspector Recruitment – For OND, NCE, or equivalent qualifications.
3. Cadet ASP Recruitment – For university or polytechnic graduates (Degree/HND).

Since you’re a graduate, you will be focusing on the Cadet ASP category.

3. Requirements for Joining the Nigerian Police as a Graduate

To qualify for the Cadet ASP recruitment, applicants must meet the following conditions:

A. Nationality and Age

• Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
• Age range: 23 to 28 years at the time of application.

B. Educational Qualification

• Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree (BSc, BA, BEng, LLB, MBBS, etc.) or a Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognized institution.
• Must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program and possess an NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
• Must have a minimum of five (5) credits in O’level, including English and Mathematics.

C. Physical Requirements

• Height:
  • Male – 1.67 meters (5 feet 6 inches)
  • Female – 1.64 meters (5 feet 4 inches)
• Must be physically and mentally fit as determined by the Police medical team.

D. Character and Conduct

• Must be of good character.
• Must not have been convicted by any court of law.
• Must not belong to any secret society or cult.

4. How to Apply for the Nigerian Police as a Graduate

The application process is simple but requires careful attention. Below is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Visit the Official Recruitment Portal

• Go to the Nigeria Police Force recruitment portal (official website used in previous exercises).
• Ensure you are applying under the Cadet ASP category.

Step 2: Create an Account

• Register with a valid email address and phone number.
• Create a password and verify your account through email.

Step 3: Fill Out the Online Form

• Fill in your personal details, educational background, and contact information accurately.
• Upload all required documents, including your degree/HND certificate, NYSC certificate, and passport photograph.

Step 4: Submit and Print Your Forms

• After submission, print the following:
  • Acknowledgement Slip
  • Guarantor Form
  • Attestation Form

Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for screening, which includes:
  • Document verification
  • Physical and medical fitness test
  • Aptitude test/interview

Step 6: Training

• Successful candidates will proceed to the Police Academy (POLAC) or other designated Police training institutions for 6 to 9 months of intensive training.

5. Training and Commissioning

During training, graduate recruits are exposed to:

• Police duties and ethics
• Criminal law and investigations
• Firearms handling and safety
• Physical fitness and discipline
• Leadership and administrative management

Upon completion, successful graduates are commissioned as Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASP) — the entry rank for graduate officers in the Nigerian Police Force.

6. Rank and Salary After Joining

Graduates who join the Police through the Cadet ASP program start their careers as Assistant Superintendents of Police.

Estimated Salary Structure (2026):

These figures exclude allowances such as housing, medical, and transport, which vary by location and duty post.

7. Benefits of Joining the Nigerian Police as a Graduate

Joining the Nigerian Police as a graduate offers several benefits:

• Good Salary and Allowances: Competitive pay compared to many public sectors.
• Free Medical Care: Officers and their families enjoy free healthcare.
• Accommodation Benefits: Provision of official quarters or housing allowance.
• Career Growth: Clear promotion structure and opportunities for specialization.
• Retirement Benefits: Pension and gratuity after years of meritorious service.
• Prestige and Service: Respectable position and opportunity to contribute to national peace and security.

8. Tips for a Successful Application

• Apply early before the deadline.
• Ensure all information and documents are correct.
• Prepare for the aptitude and physical tests.
• Keep checking your email and the official portal for updates.
• Avoid scammers or middlemen; recruitment is free of charge.

9. Summary Table

10. Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Police Force as a graduate is a rewarding career choice for individuals passionate about law enforcement, justice, and public service. With your education and leadership skills, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national security while enjoying a stable and respected career.

The Cadet ASP recruitment remains the best entry route for graduates who desire to rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Police Force and become senior officers.

If you meet the qualifications and requirements, get your documents ready and apply once the Nigerian Police Recruitment 2026 portal opens.