The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is one of the key government agencies in the country. Its job goes beyond just checking goods at the border. Customs officers help control imports and exports, collect revenue for the government, stop smuggling, and keep our borders safe. Because of how important their work is, joining the Customs Service is seen as a great opportunity for many Nigerians.
Every few years, the NCS opens its doors to new applicants through an official recruitment exercise. The current one began late last year, and it has now entered its Computer-Based Test (CBT) stage. Below, we’ll break down what has happened so far and what shortlisted candidates need to know.
Application Stage (2024/2025)
The recruitment process started in December 2024, when the NCS announced vacancies across three main cadres:
- Superintendent Cadre
- Inspectorate Cadre
- Customs Assistant Cadre
The application portal was open to qualified Nigerians across the country and closed in January 2025. Over 573,000 applications were received during this time.
Shortlisting of Candidates
After the application window closed, the service carefully reviewed all submissions. In August 2025, they released a shortlist containing 286,697 candidates who qualified to move on to the next phase.
These shortlisted candidates are now competing for 3,927 available positions.
The NCS also instructed everyone on the shortlist to verify their email addresses through the official portal. This step was important because all further updates, including CBT schedules, would be sent directly to their verified emails.
CBT Phase (September 2025)
The Computer-Based Test phase officially kicked off on September 14, 2025, and ended on September 21, 2025. This stage is crucial because it determines who moves forward in the recruitment process.
Some key things to note about the CBT:
- It is conducted online using a laptop or desktop (not phones).
- Candidates must have a functional webcam and stable internet connection.
- Facial verification is required before starting the test.
- The test must be taken in full-screen mode. Switching between tabs or allowing background noise can cause automatic disqualification.
- For the Superintendent Cadre, there was a special pre-test scheduled for September 22, 2025, after the general CBT.
The NCS has warned applicants to rely only on their verified emails and the official portal for information, not random social media posts or third-party sites.
Important Reminders
- Check Your Email Regularly
All CBT details—including date, time, and login credentials—it will reach your email used during registration. - Avoid Cybercafés or Unofficial “Helpers”
Many scammers pose as recruitment agents during this period. The NCS has repeatedly stated that recruitment is free and handled only through official channels. - Prepare early for the test
Make sure your laptop, webcam, and internet connection are working properly ahead of time. Logging in late or facing technical glitches could cost you your chance. - Application Stage is Over
New applications are no longer being accepted. Only shortlisted candidates are involved in the ongoing CBT stage.
What Happens After the CBT?
After finishing the CBT, successful candidates will move on to more screening, which may include:
- Physical verification of documents
- Medical tests
- Final selection based on merit and available vacancies
Those who pass all stages will receive official appointment offers into the Nigeria Customs Service.
Final Thoughts
The Nigeria Customs recruitment is very competitive but clear. If you applied and made the shortlist, stay alert and follow all instructions carefully.
If you did not apply this time, don’t worry. Rrecruitment exercises happen periodically. The most important thing is to stay informed through official channels, so you’re ready when the next one begins.
In Summary:
- Recruitment started Dec 2024
- Shortlist released Aug 2025
- CBT phase runs Sept 14–21, 2025
- Pre-test for Superintendent Cadre on Sept 22
- Only shortlisted candidates are eligible now
- Always rely on verified emails and official NCS announcements.