Joining the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) is a major step for anyone interested in a career in law enforcement. But before you make that commitment, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for—especially when it comes to the training duration and the allowances you’ll receive while in training.
Many aspiring officers are often surprised to learn that, unlike other military and paramilitary agencies in Nigeria, the NPF pays relatively modest training allowances. These allowances vary depending on the type of training, your entry rank, and the specific police institution you attend. Similarly, the training duration can range from several months to several years depending on your career path within the force.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the NPF training allowance, training duration, and the structure of police training in Nigeria. If you’re thinking of joining the NPF, this is the kind of information you’ll want to know before making a final decision.
Overview of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF)
The Nigerian Police Force is the country’s primary law enforcement agency, charged with maintaining public peace, enforcing laws, preventing and investigating crimes, and ensuring the safety of lives and property across Nigeria. It operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Police Service Commission, with oversight from the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The NPF is one of the largest security organizations in Nigeria, with a structure that includes:
- 36 State Commands
- Zonal Commands
- Divisional and Area Commands
- Special Units like SARS, SWAT, CID, and others
Despite its size and critical role in maintaining national security, the Nigerian Police Force is often criticized for its relatively low remuneration compared to other armed forces like the Army, Navy, or Air Force. This pay gap starts right from the training stage.
What Is the Nigerian Police Training Like?
The NPF training process is designed to equip officers with the mental, physical, and emotional resilience required to handle a range of law enforcement duties. The training is overseen by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of Training, and it combines theoretical coursework with intensive physical and operational drills.
1. Theoretical Training
Recruits are taught:
- Basic laws and policing ethics
- Police operations and procedures
- Criminal and civil law
- Human rights and community policing
- Conflict resolution
2. Practical & Physical Training
Trainees also undergo:
- Self-defense and tactical combat skills
- Weapons handling and firearm use
- Drill exercises and discipline routines
- Physical fitness training
- Crime scene management and investigation techniques
Training curricula are regularly reviewed to reflect modern policing needs, including cybercrime, terrorism, and intelligence gathering. The ultimate goal is to produce officers who are not only physically fit but also ethically grounded and intellectually capable.
NPF Training Duration by Entry Level
The duration of training in the Nigerian Police Force depends on your entry route and intended career level. There are three major entry categories:
| Entry Rank | Training Duration |
|---|---|
| Police Recruits | 9 months |
| Cadet ASPs | 12 months (1 year) |
| Police Academy Cadets | 5 years (degree program) |
1. Police Recruits (Constables) – 9 Months
This category is for those entering the force as constables. They undergo a 9-month training program at designated Police Training Colleges across Nigeria. This is the most basic level of entry into the NPF.
2. Cadet Assistant Superintendents of Police (Cadet ASPs) – 1 Year
Those who qualify through the Cadet ASP program undergo one full year of training at the Police Staff College or similar senior institutions. These are typically graduates who are being trained to become superior officers.
3. Nigeria Police Academy Cadets – 5 Years
Admission into the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC) in Wudil, Kano State, involves a 5-year program that includes both academic and police training. Cadets graduate with a degree and are commissioned into the force as ASPs.
NPF Training Allowance by Rank
Training allowance is a stipend paid to trainees to support them during their training period. It is significantly lower than the regular salaries received after passing out.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated allowances for various training categories:
| Rank | Monthly Training Allowance |
|---|---|
| Police Recruits | ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 |
| Cadet ASPs | ₦15,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Police Academy Cadets | ₦25,000 – ₦50,000 |
Note: These figures may vary slightly depending on the training location and government revisions. They are meant to serve as a general guide.
Key Observations:
- Recruits earn the least, reflecting their entry-level status and shorter training period.
- Cadet ASPs receive slightly more, as their program is longer and geared towards leadership roles.
- Academy Cadets, who undergo the most comprehensive training, receive the highest allowance during training.
Despite the rigorous nature of the training, the allowances are considered low when compared with what is obtainable in other security forces.
Where Is NPF Training Conducted?
Training is done at various Police Training Colleges, Police Staff Colleges, and the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC). Some notable institutions include:
- Police College Ikeja (Lagos State)
- Police College Kaduna
- Police College Maiduguri
- Police Training School Jos
- Nigeria Police Academy Wudil (Kano State)
Each center is equipped with classrooms, parade grounds, firing ranges, and dormitories to facilitate both theoretical and practical aspects of police training.
Is the Training Allowance Enough?
For many aspiring officers, the training allowance barely covers basic expenses like food, transport, and toiletries. Most trainees rely on family support or personal savings during this period. This reality is one of the reasons some people reconsider joining the force—especially if financial stability is a major concern.
However, for those passionate about law enforcement and public service, the training period is often seen as an investment in a meaningful career.
Conclusion
Joining the Nigerian Police Force requires serious commitment, both mentally and financially. The training period can last anywhere from 9 months to 5 years, depending on your entry route, and the monthly allowance ranges between ₦10,000 and ₦50,000.
While the allowance might seem low, it’s important to see this stage as a stepping stone to a career that offers long-term growth, job security, and the chance to serve your country.
Understanding these details before applying gives you a realistic idea of what to expect and helps you make an informed decision. Whether you plan to enter as a constable, Cadet ASP, or a university-level cadet, knowing the duration and allowances ahead of time prepares you for the journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is police training in Nigeria?
It ranges from 9 months for recruits, 1 year for Cadet ASPs, and 5 years for Police Academy Cadets.
2. How much is NPF training allowance for recruits?
Recruits typically earn between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000 monthly during the 9-month training.
3. Do Cadet ASPs get paid during training?
Yes, Cadet ASPs receive ₦15,000 to ₦20,000 monthly throughout their 1-year training.
4. Which police training pays the highest allowance?
The Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC) Cadets receive the highest training allowance—ranging from ₦25,000 to ₦50,000 monthly.
5. Is police training in Nigeria hard?
Yes, the training is rigorous, involving physical fitness, tactical drills, and academic studies.
6. Where is the Nigeria Police Academy located?
It is located in Wudil, Kano State.
7. Do NPF trainees wear uniforms during training?
Yes, all trainees are issued uniforms and are expected to maintain a high level of discipline.
