By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced that it has shortlisted 171,956 successful applicants for the upcoming Computer Based Test (CBT), which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 5th, 2024. These applicants emerged from the recently concluded credentials and physical screening exercise conducted across the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Out of the total number of successful applicants, 171,956 candidates will be participating in the Computer Based Test. These candidates are vying for positions in the General Duty cadre, reflecting their commitment to serving in the Nigerian Police Force.

Furthermore, the Commission has also identified 43,778 successful applicants from the specialists cadre during the screening exercise. These candidates will undergo practical tests at a later date, which will be announced by the Commission.

Following the Meeting of the Police Recruitment Board on Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, the Commission approved the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to conduct the Computer Based Test for the Police applicants. JAMB’s extensive experience in conducting such examinations was a key factor in this decision.

In the General Duty cadre, a total of 315,114 applicants were invited for the screening exercise, out of which 171,956 were successful and shortlisted for the JAMB CBT. Among the shortlisted candidates, there are 25,818 females and 146,138 males, demonstrating the diverse pool of talent and gender representation in the recruitment process.

Adamawa State will be presenting the highest number of candidates for the tests, with 13,780 applicants. It is followed by Kaduna with 12,343 candidates, Bauchi with 10,911 candidates, Benue with 10,532 candidates, and Katsina with 10,457 candidates. Conversely, Anambra State has the lowest number of candidates with only 343 applicants, followed by Lagos with 504 and Ebonyi with 600.

Candidates who pass the Computer Based Test will be required to undergo medical examinations before proceeding to the next stage of training. This thorough selection process ensures that the Police Force is composed of qualified individuals who are physically and mentally fit to serve and protect the nation.

Dr. Solomon Arase CFR, retired Inspector General of Police and Chairman of the Commission, expressed his confidence in concluding the recruitment exercise on time. This will enable successful candidates to be quickly integrated into the system, joining the renewed effort against insurgency and banditry. Dr. Arase also commended the President for providing the opportunity to reinforce and reinvigorate the Police Force, aiming for improved performance.

Dr. Arase emphasized the Commission’s commitment to selecting and developing a citizen-oriented and friendly police force, properly trained and equipped to provide inspiring leadership in ensuring the nation’s eternal security.