The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded the final phase of its 2025 recruitment exercise. The exercise, which started on September 7, 2026, ended on September 19, 2026, at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) in Gwagwalada, Abuja. Shortlisted candidates completed documentation, physical fitness assessments, and medical screenings. The screening covered candidates across the Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII), Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres.
The screening was conducted in batches to ensure an orderly process and reduce congestion at the centre. According to the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resource Development, Frank Onyeka, measures were implemented to address gaps identified during the earlier phase. These measures aimed to improve the screening process and ensure greater efficiency. Onyeka emphasized the importance of discipline and responsibility among candidates.
Deputy Comptroller of Customs and member of the coordinating team, Adamu Musa, stated that the exercise recorded significant improvements. Close to 3,000 candidates were screened without any casualty. Musa attributed the progress to the introduction of personalized screening forms containing candidates' records across various assessment stages. These forms helped verify candidates' information and reduced errors.
Musa stressed the importance of continuous manpower development to strengthen the Service's capacity to meet its evolving responsibilities. He said the growing demands on Customs underscore the need to continually improve its workforce. The Service's responsibilities include national security, border protection, and other services to the nation.
Candidates were evaluated based on criteria set by the Service, including age, physical fitness, and drug screening. Candidates who test positive for hard drugs, exceed the stipulated age limit, or have physical conditions that may affect their duties could be disqualified. The final decision on disqualification rests with the management.
Musa advised candidates and members of the public to verify recruitment information through the Service's official website and verified social media platforms. This is to avoid fraudulent messages and ensure that candidates have accurate information. The Service is committed to transparency and fairness in its recruitment process.
The Nigeria Customs Service is set to enhance its workforce with the new recruits. The recruits will play a crucial role in strengthening the Service's capacity to meet its evolving responsibilities. The Service's efforts to improve its recruitment process aim to ensure that it attracts and retains the best candidates.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service screened close to 3,000 candidates without any casualty.
- The Service introduced personalized screening forms to improve the recruitment process.
- Candidates were evaluated based on criteria set by the Service, including age, physical fitness, and drug screening.
