…Service Tightens Screening Process, Warns Applicants Against Fraudulent Recruitment Messages
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded the final phase of its 2025 recruitment exercise, with shortlisted candidates undergoing documentation, physical fitness assessments and medical screening at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Gwagwalada, Abuja.
The two-week exercise, which began on Monday, September 7, 2026, ended on Saturday, September 19, with candidates across the Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII), Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres participating in the screening.
The exercise was conducted in batches to minimise congestion and ensure a more orderly screening process at the centre.
Speaking on the outcome, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resource Development, Frank Onyeka, said the Service had introduced measures to address challenges identified during the earlier phase of the exercise.
“We have put measures in place to reduce congestion and ensure a smoother process this week. The gaps identified last week have been addressed, and we do not expect them to recur this week,” Onyeka said.
He also stressed the need for discipline and responsibility among candidates throughout the recruitment process.
A member of the coordinating team, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Adamu Musa, said the exercise had recorded significant improvements, with close to 3,000 candidates screened without any reported casualty.
Musa attributed the improvement to the introduction of personalised screening forms containing candidates’ records across the various stages of the exercise.
According to him, the new system allows officials to verify candidates’ information against records already captured in the Service’s database, reducing the possibility of alterations or manipulation of records during the screening process.
“Any candidate that has been shortlisted has a form designed especially for him, unlike in the past where you come, they issue you a form, and then some people along the way go and even change some of the records,” Musa explained.
He said the forms contain candidates’ names and other details required for sports, medical examinations, documentation and other aspects of the screening, enabling officials to verify information already contained in the system.
Musa further emphasised the importance of continuous manpower development, noting that the expanding responsibilities of the Customs Service require a workforce capable of responding effectively to emerging demands in national security, border protection and other areas of national service.
He disclosed that candidates were assessed against criteria established by the Service, including age, physical fitness and drug screening.
According to him, candidates who test positive for hard drugs, exceed the stipulated age limit or have physical conditions considered capable of affecting their duties may be disqualified, subject to the final decision of the Service’s management.
The Customs official also urged applicants and members of the public to rely only on the Service’s official website and verified social media platforms for recruitment information.
