The Nigeria Police Force has commenced the 2026 physical and credential screening exercise for prospective police constables in Rivers State.

The exercise, which began on March 9, is being conducted at the Port Harcourt Civic Centre and will run daily until April 18 to allow all eligible applicants to participate in the recruitment process.

Addressing candidates on the first day of the exercise, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Adepoju, emphasised the importance of fairness, transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants.

Adepoju stressed that every candidate has an equal chance of being selected and warned that the recruitment process must remain free from corruption, malpractice or undue influence.

He also reiterated the directive of the Inspector-General of Police that all officers and stakeholders involved in the screening exercise must demonstrate professionalism, integrity and strict adherence to due process.

The recruitment panel overseeing the exercise is headed by Okere Daniel, who serves as the Ad-hoc Panel Head.

Other members of the team include Izibili Victor, Chukwudi Ahunanya, and the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko.

The team is also supported by officers including SP Ohamara Mgbonye, SP Adegbe Peter, ASP Chidiebere Jacob and ASP Captain Ogbuewe, who represents the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices.

Representatives from the Police Service Commission, the National Population Commission, and the Police Community Relations Committee are also participating in the exercise to ensure transparency and compliance with established procedures.

The Commissioner of Police advised applicants to remain orderly and conduct themselves properly throughout the screening process, stressing that the exercise is completely free of charge.

He further urged candidates to promptly report any attempt by officers or individuals to demand money or engage in unprofessional conduct, assuring them that such complaints would be thoroughly investigated.

Adepoju added that adequate security arrangements have been put in place at the venue, with the provost team ensuring strict compliance with all directives to guarantee a smooth and credible recruitment process.