PSC Confirms Drug Users Will Be Excluded from Police Recruitment

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has made it clear that drug users will be excluded from joining the Nigeria Police Force, reiterating its determination to maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity within the organization.

The commission explained that all potential recruits will face stringent evaluation processes, including thorough drug testing, ensuring that only those deemed qualified and medically fit will be accepted into the force.

The PSC stated that this initiative aims to bolster discipline, build public trust, and enhance operational effectiveness within the Police Force.

During a press briefing in Abuja concerning the recruitment of 50,000 new constables, the Chairman of the PSC Standing Committee on Police Matters, DIG Taiwo Lakanu (Rtd), revealed that the commission will collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to perform extensive drug integrity tests.

"I want to clarify this unequivocally: individuals who engage in drug use and those with dubious character will not be able to enlist in the Nigeria Police Force," he asserted. "Our collaboration with the NDLEA guarantees that only candidates of sound health, strong character, and proven integrity will be brought on board."

"Successful individuals will then be assigned to designated Police Colleges for training before being deployed to various commands and formations for active service."

Lakanu emphasized that the recruitment phase is critical for the Nigeria Police Force's credibility, arguing that a world-class institution cannot be constructed on the basis of compromised entry standards.

He also pointed out that the Commission has adopted a rigorous zero-tolerance policy towards irregularities in the recruitment process.

To further promote transparency and stakeholder confidence, the PSC has launched a whistle-blowing initiative during the recruitment exercise. This allows citizens to report suspected misconduct, with promises that all notifications will be handled confidentially and thoroughly investigated.

He highlighted that this recruitment effort is the most inclusive in the history of the Commission, with a focus on gender representation and expanded participation from stakeholders.

Lakanu underscored the involvement of the Federal Character Commission, Guidance and Counselling Departments from state governments, the Police Community Relations Committee, civil society organizations, and the NDLEA to ensure fairness and equal representation in the recruitment process.

He reiterated that building an effective Nigeria Police Force is a collective national goal that necessitates the collaboration of citizens, media, and various stakeholders throughout the security landscape.

Lakanu affirmed the Commission’s dedication to ensuring a recruitment process that is fair, transparent, and based on merit, aimed at establishing a police force that meets the needs and expectations of Nigeria.