NCS Completes Final Phase of 2025 Recruitment Screening in Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded the final phase of its 2025 recruitment exercise, with shortlisted candidates undergoing documentation, physical fitness assessments and medical screening at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Gwagwalada, Abuja.
The two-week exercise, which commenced on Monday, September 7, 2026, ended on Saturday, September 19, 2026, and covered candidates shortlisted for the Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII), Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres.
The screening was conducted in batches to ensure an orderly process, reduce congestion and improve the overall efficiency of the exercise.
Speaking on the outcome, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resource Development, Frank Onyeka, said the Service had introduced measures to address gaps identified during the earlier phase of the recruitment process.
He said the measures were designed to reduce congestion and ensure a smoother screening exercise.
“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 stated.
He also emphasised the need for discipline and responsibility among candidates throughout the recruitment process.
Also speaking, the Deputy Comptroller of Customs and member of the coordinating team, Adamu Musa, said the exercise had recorded significant improvements, with nearly 3,000 candidates screened without any casualty.
According to him, the improved process was partly achieved through the introduction of personalised screening forms containing candidates’ records across the different stages of the exercise.
“Any candidate that has been shortlisted has a form designed especially for him, unlike in the past where you come, they issue you a form, and then some people along the way go and even change some of the records,” Musa explained.
He said the forms contain candidates’ names and other details covering sports, medical assessment, documentation and the checklist of required items.
Musa explained that the system enables officials to verify candidates’ information against records already captured in the recruitment system, thereby reducing opportunities for alterations and improving the screening process.
He further stressed the importance of continuous manpower development, noting that the growing responsibilities of the Customs Service require a workforce capable of responding effectively to emerging demands in national security, border protection and other statutory responsibilities.
Musa also disclosed that candidates would be assessed based on criteria established by the Service, including age, physical fitness and drug screening.
He explained that candidates who test positive for hard drugs, exceed the stipulated age limit or have physical conditions considered capable of affecting their duties may be disqualified, subject to the final decision of the management.
The Deputy Comptroller urged candidates and members of the public to rely on the Nigeria Customs Service’s official website and verified social media platforms for authentic recruitment information.
He warned that prospective candidates should be cautious of fraudulent messages and recruitment information circulated through unofficial channels.
