Customs to conduct CBT for 286,697 applicants jostling for 3,927 positions

The Nigeria Customs Service has announced that 286,697 candidates have been shortlisted to move on to the second phase of its recruitment exercise, which will run from September 14 to 21, 2025.

This stage will be conducted online through a Computer-Based Test.

According to the NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, the recruitment process is designed to be transparent, fair, and accessible. Out of 573,523 applications received for 3,927 available positions, 286,697 qualified candidates were selected after a thorough screening process.

Earlier in January, it was reported that the Federal Government approved the recruitment of 3,927 officers across the Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres.

The exercise aims to boost manpower and improve service delivery within the Customs.
Maiwada explained that the CBT can be taken from anywhere with internet access but must be done using a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam and full-screen display, as mobile phones are not allowed.

He added that facial verification will be required at login, and candidates must remain focused since the system is sensitive to noise, movement, or distractions. Any attempt to switch between windows will be flagged as malpractice and could lead to disqualification.

A mandatory pre-test session will be held two days before the main exam to help candidates get familiar with the process. Separate links will be provided for the pre-test and the main test.

Candidates applying for the Superintendent Cadre will face an additional CBT in the next phase of the recruitment, while those in the Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres will not.

The NCS stressed that the recruitment is strictly based on merit and transparency, urging applicants to follow official communication channels for updates.

The service also warned against relying on social media platforms or making any form of payment, as it does not charge applicants for the process.

This recruitment exercise is part of NCS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its workforce and ensure it has competent officers to manage Nigeria’s trade and border operations.