The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded the final phase of its 2025 recruitment exercise, with nearly 3,000 shortlisted candidates screened across various cadres.
The two-week exercise, which commenced on Monday, September 7, 2026, ended on Saturday, September 19, at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Gwagwalada, Abuja.
The screening covered candidates shortlisted for the Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII), Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres.
The exercise was conducted in batches to minimise congestion and ensure a smooth and orderly screening process.
Speaking on the outcome, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resource Development, Frank Onyeka, said the Service had taken steps to address challenges encountered during the earlier phase of the exercise.
According to him, the measures were introduced to reduce congestion and improve the overall efficiency of the screening process.
“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.
Similarly, a Deputy Comptroller of Customs and member of the coordinating team, Adamu Musa, said the exercise had recorded significant improvements, with close to 3,000 candidates screened without any casualty.
Musa attributed the improved process to the introduction of personalised screening forms containing candidates’ records for the different stages of the assessment.
He explained that each shortlisted candidate was assigned a form containing their name and relevant details for sports, medical examinations, documentation and other required checks.
According to him, the system allows officials to verify candidates’ details against information already contained in the Service’s database, thereby reducing the risk of alteration or manipulation of records.
Musa emphasised the importance of continuous manpower development, noting that the growing responsibilities of the Customs Service require a well-trained and adequately equipped workforce.
He said strengthening human resources would enable the Service to effectively perform its responsibilities in national security, border protection and other areas of national service.
On the screening criteria, Musa disclosed that candidates were assessed based on requirements set by the Service, including age, physical fitness and drug screening.
He noted that candidates who test positive for hard drugs, exceed the stipulated age limit or have physical conditions that could affect their ability to perform assigned duties may be disqualified, subject to the final decision of the Service’s management.
Musa further advised candidates and members of the public to obtain recruitment information only from the official channels of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He warned applicants against fraudulent messages and individuals seeking to exploit the recruitment exercise, urging them to verify all information through the Service’s official website and verified social media platforms.
