The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Rilwan Disu, has strengthened the recruitment process of the Nigeria Police Force with measures aimed at preventing cultists, criminals and individuals of questionable character from gaining entry into the institution.

The initiative forms part of the ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise for 50,000 police constables, which the Inspector-General has identified as an opportunity to lay a stronger foundation for professionalism, discipline, integrity and public confidence in the Force.

Since assuming office as the 26th Indigenous Inspector-General of Police, Disu has pursued reforms focused on improving discipline and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.

One of the key principles of his administration is that officers found culpable of misconduct must face appropriate disciplinary measures.

However, the Inspector-General’s approach goes beyond punishment, with emphasis placed on preventing unsuitable individuals from entering the force.

As part of the recruitment strategy, Disu directed the national coordinator of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), SP Ikwen Orvenonne, to deploy POCACOV coordinators to recruitment centres across the country.

The coordinators are expected to complement existing screening procedures by promoting ethical values, identifying behavioural red flags and reinforcing the importance of discipline, integrity, responsible citizenship and respect for the rule of law among prospective recruits.

The initiative effectively introduces a value-based dimension into the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are assessed not only on physical fitness and academic qualifications but  on their suitability to undertake the responsibilities associated with police service.

Reports from various recruitment centres indicate that applicants who failed to meet the required standards were screened out during the exercise.

The development is significant against the background of a long-standing perception in some communities that troublesome youths could be sent to the Police to be straightened out.

The new approach seeks to reject that mindset, emphasising that the Nigeria Police Force is not a rehabilitation centre but a professional institution responsible for enforcing the law, protecting lives and property and safeguarding citizens’ rights.