Nigeria Customs Service Invites 286,697 Candidates for 2025 Online Recruitment Test

With over 573,523 applications received during the initial stage that was advertised on
December 27, 2024, the recruitment process has now moved into a more competitive stage
where candidates will be tested through a nationwide CBT scheduled between
September 14 and September 21, 2025.

Recruitment Breakdown and Shortlisting

Out of the half a million applications received, nearly half were screened out during the
document verification stage. According to the Customs Service,
only 286,697 candidates passed the documentary scrutiny and were deemed eligible
to sit for the next phase of the recruitment exercise.

The vacancies available are divided across three cadres:

• Superintendent Cadre (Level 8): Senior-level positions requiring higher qualifications.
• Inspectorate Cadre: Mid-level positions with moderate entry requirements.
• Customs Assistant Cadre: Entry-level positions forming the bulk of Customs workforce.

Candidates should note that the Superintendent Cadre applicants will undergo
an additional CBT phase in the recruitment process, unlike those applying for
the Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres.

Computer-Based Test (CBT) Schedule

The online recruitment test will run from September 14 to September 21, 2025.
This innovative approach allows candidates to take the test from any location in Nigeria,
provided they have reliable internet access and the required equipment.

The Customs Service emphasized that the exam platform is
not mobile-phone enabled. Applicants must use a
laptop or desktop computer with:

• A functional webcam.
• A full-screen display enabled.
• Stable internet connectivity.

Before the main test, all candidates will undergo a mandatory pre-test exercise
to familiarize themselves with the system. Each candidate will receive
two separate links: one for the pre-test and another for the actual CBT exam.

Exam Guidelines and Rules

The Customs Service has outlined strict guidelines for the CBT exam to ensure fairness
and maintain integrity. Candidates must adhere to the following:

• Facial verification check: Each candidate will be verified through a facial scan at login.
• Dress neatly: To avoid recognition errors, candidates should be properly dressed and presentable.
• Avoid distractions: The CBT system is sensitive to noise and body movement.
  Excessive movement, whispering, or background disturbances may result in automatic logout.
• No switching windows: Attempting to switch between screens during the test will be flagged as malpractice and may lead to disqualification.
• Quiet environment: Candidates must take the test in a noise-free room with minimal interruptions.

By enforcing these rules, the NCS aims to maintain a high level of exam integrity and
prevent malpractice during the recruitment process.

Superintendent Cadre Additional CBT

Applicants who applied for the Superintendent Cadre (Level 8) should be aware that
they will participate in an additional Computer-Based Test after this stage.
This further screening is designed to ensure that only the most qualified candidates
progress to the next level of recruitment.

However, this requirement does not apply to candidates under the
Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres.

Merit-Based Recruitment Assurance

In its official statement, the NCS reiterated that the recruitment exercise will be
entirely merit-driven. No candidate will be given undue advantage,
and only those who successfully pass each stage of the process will move forward.

The Customs Service also urged applicants to rely solely on official communication channels
for updates and information. This is to prevent falling victim to false information or recruitment scams.

The recruitment is not just about filling vacancies; it is about strengthening Nigeria’s
border security, trade facilitation, and customs operations. Successful candidates will
play critical roles in:

• Revenue generation for the federal government.
• Protecting Nigeria’s borders against smuggling.
• Enhancing international trade processes.
• Supporting national security initiatives

• Test your equipment: Ensure your laptop/desktop, webcam, and internet connection work perfectly.
• Practice mock tests: Use online CBT practice platforms to get familiar with multiple-choice questions.
• Create a quiet environment: Choose a room with no distractions to avoid automatic logouts.
• Review past questions: Brush up on common aptitude test questions including mathematics, reasoning, and English comprehension.
• Follow NCS updates: Regularly check the official NCS website and verified social media handles.

Candidates must strictly follow the guidelines, rely on
official updates, and prepare diligently for the upcoming test.
By maintaining a merit-based approach, the NCS aims to select only the best talents
that will strengthen Nigeria’s customs operations and national security.