Nigeria Police Force Recruitment 2026: Official Date for Physical and Credential Screening Announced

 

​The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in conjunction with the Police Service Commission (PSC), has officially announced the commencement date for the physical and credential screening exercise for the 2026 recruitment cycle. This pivotal phase marks a significant step for thousands of applicants nationwide who are aspiring to join the force as Police Constables. According to the official statement released on February 24, 2026, the screening is scheduled to begin on March 3, 2026, across all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

​Key Dates and Locations for NPF Screening

​For candidates who successfully navigated the initial online application stage, the wait is finally over. The physical and credential screening exercise is a mandatory requirement designed to verify the authenticity of documents and the physical fitness of potential recruits.

• ​Start Date: March 3, 2026
• ​Venue: Designated centers in the State Command Headquarters of each applicant’s state of origin.
• ​Time: 8:00 AM daily.

​Applicants are strongly advised to check their registered email addresses and phone numbers for specific invite notifications. The Police Command has emphasized that the screening will be conducted in batches to ensure a seamless and organized process.

​Mandatory Documents for Credential Verification

​To avoid disqualification, candidates must present original copies and photocopies of specific documents. The NPF has outlined a strict checklist that all applicants must adhere to during the exercise. Failure to provide any of the following may result in immediate dismissal from the recruitment venue:

1. ​Evidence of Physical/Mental Fitness: A certified medical report from a recognized Government Hospital.
2. ​Evidence of Good Character: A letter of attestation signed by a Traditional Ruler, Magistrate, or a high-ranking Civil Servant.
3. ​Educational Qualifications: Original certificates of GCE, SSCE, NECO, or NABTEB with a minimum of five credits (including English and Mathematics) obtained in not more than two sittings.
4. ​Birth Certificate/Declaration of Age: To verify that the applicant falls within the age bracket of 18 to 25 years.
5. ​State of Origin Certificate: Duly signed by the Local Government Chairman to confirm the candidate's indigene status.
6. ​National Identity Number (NIN): A printout of the slip or the original ID card.
7. ​Printout of Application Form: The completed online summary and guarantor forms.

​Physical Requirements and Standards

​The Nigeria Police Force maintains high standards for physical fitness. During the March 3rd exercise, officers will conduct height and chest measurements.

• ​Male Candidates: Must not be less than 1.67 meters tall.
• ​Female Candidates: Must not be less than 1.64 meters tall.
• ​Additional Criteria: Applicants must not have any physical deformities, such as bow legs, knock knees, or flat feet, which might hinder their performance during rigorous police training.

​Warning Against Recruitment Scams

​The Force Public Relations Officer has reiterated that the Nigeria Police recruitment process is free of charge. Candidates are warned to be wary of fraudsters and "job racketeers" promising guaranteed placement in exchange for money.

​"The recruitment is based purely on merit. Any candidate found attempting to bribe recruitment officers or presenting forged documents will be arrested and prosecuted immediately," the statement read.

​Next Steps After Physical Screening

​Candidates who scale the physical and credential screening will proceed to the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which will be organized in collaboration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Following the CBT, a final medical examination will be conducted before the successful candidates are sent to various Police Colleges across Nigeria for their 6-month basic training.