The Police Service Commission has screened out no fewer than 121,596 applicants in the ongoing recruitment of constables into the Nigeria Police Force, even as a United Kingdom court jailed a Nigerian man for sexually assaulting two women on train journeys.
The two developments, though unrelated, have drawn public attention to issues of security, youth employment, and the conduct of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the Chairman of the PSC Standing Committee on Police Matters, Dr Taiwo Lakanu, said the commission received 161,873 applications during the recruitment exercise.
He explained that after a detailed screening process, only qualified applicants were allowed to move to the next stage.
According to him, the high number of applicants reflects the continued interest of young Nigerians in joining the police.
The PSC disclosed that over 434,000 candidates have qualified for the next phase of the exercise after screening, while 60,674 applications were declared invalid.
Lakanu said most of the applicants applied for general duty positions, while others sought specialist roles in the force.
He also revealed that male applicants dominated the exercise, with significantly fewer female participants.
The commission noted disparities in participation across states and said the deadline for applications was extended by two weeks to encourage more youths from underrepresented states to apply.
Lakanu said the extension produced positive results, improving nationwide participation.
“The figure is a clear demonstration of the continued confidence of Nigerian youths in the Nigeria Police Force as a career of honour and service,” he said.
The recruitment is part of efforts by the Federal Government to address manpower shortages in the police and improve internal security.
Nigeria has struggled with growing insecurity in recent years, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
Security experts have repeatedly called for increased recruitment and modernisation of the police to meet rising threats.
The Federal Government had earlier announced plans to recruit tens of thousands of new officers to strengthen law enforcement across the country.
The police-to-population ratio in Nigeria remains far below international standards, which analysts say has affected response time and crime prevention.
The PSC has also emphasised transparency and warned applicants to avoid fraudsters and middlemen.
The commission said the recruitment process is free and urged candidates not to pay any money.
Physical and credential screening for successful applicants is scheduled to take place nationwide from March 9 to April 18, 2026.
Applicants are expected to present identity documents, academic certificates, and other required credentials at designated centres.
Observers say the exercise could provide employment opportunities for many young Nigerians amid rising unemployment.
Youth joblessness remains a major concern, with millions seeking stable careers in government institutions.
Many Nigerians see the police as a pathway to economic stability and public service.
However, civil society groups have urged the government to focus not only on recruitment but also on training, welfare, and professionalism.
They argue that improving working conditions will enhance performance and reduce corruption.
The recruitment also comes at a time when public trust in the police remains a sensitive issue following the #EndSARS protests in 2020.
Activists have called for deeper reforms, including accountability, community policing, and better oversight.
Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, a Nigerian man identified as Esosa Eguakin has been jailed for sexually assaulting two women on train journeys.
The conviction followed investigations by the British Transport Police.
The court heard that the incidents occurred on separate train services between Hampshire and London.
Eguakin was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment and given a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order restricting his movements and behaviour.
The order prohibits him from sitting or standing next to lone women on public transport.
According to the prosecution, the first incident happened in August last year when he deliberately sat behind a woman and assaulted her during a morning train trip.
In a second case in October, he assaulted another woman on a separate train service.
When confronted, he claimed he was trying to retrieve a dropped phone.
An off-duty police officer eventually intervened and detained him until other officers arrived.
The British Transport Police described his actions as predatory and distressing to the victims.
The court commended the courage of the women for supporting the investigation.
A detective involved in the case said the sentence sends a strong message that offenders will be held accountable.
“Eguakin’s behaviour was predatory and deeply distressing for both victims,” an officer said.
The case has sparked reactions among Nigerians in the diaspora, with many expressing concern about how such incidents affect the country’s global image.
Experts say crimes committed by nationals abroad often attract international attention and can influence perceptions of migrants.
Nigeria has one of the largest diaspora populations in the world, contributing billions of dollars annually through remittances.
However, diaspora communities have also faced scrutiny following high-profile criminal cases.
Analysts argue that most Nigerians abroad are law-abiding and make positive contributions in their host countries.
They stress the need to avoid stereotyping and to recognise the achievements of many professionals and entrepreneurs.
The latest conviction comes amid broader global conversations about sexual violence and public safety.
Governments in many countries have strengthened laws and enforcement against sexual offences in recent years.
Campaigns encouraging victims to report crimes have also increased awareness.
For Nigeria, the developments highlight both local and international security concerns.
While the country continues efforts to strengthen law enforcement at home, it must also engage its diaspora communities in promoting responsible conduct.
Observers say improving policing, education, and social opportunities could help reduce crime and strengthen national reputation.
They also emphasise the importance of international cooperation in law enforcement.
As the police recruitment exercise continues and global attention remains on Nigerians abroad, experts say both developments underscore the need for stronger institutions, ethical leadership, and community engagement.
For many Nigerians, the issues of security, employment, and public trust remain central to the country’s future.
