Recruitment Screening: NCS Moves to Reappraise Complaints of Rejected Applicants  

Recruitment Screening: NCS Moves to Reappraise Rejected Applicants’ Complaints

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has opened a window for reappraisal of complaints lodged by some applicants who participated at the recently concluded 2025 recruitment screening exercise, but were rejected over identified irregularities.

In a statement signed and issued on Monday, 19 October 2026 by the National Public Relations Officer and also the Deputy Comptroller of Customs, ABDULLAHI MAIWADA, the Agency noted that the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR had called for a case-by-case reappraisal to ensure legitimate complaints are heard, after meeting with some of the affected applicants.

According to the statement, the affected applicants were earlier screened out during the exercise due to some infractions.

The statement partly reads, “The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) acknowledges complaints from some applicants who participated in the recent recruitment exercise. These candidates were among those screened out and subsequently not allowed to proceed to the training college despite appearing on the recruitment shortlist.

“The Service recognises the concerns raised by affected applicants and assures the public that the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, after meeting with some of the aggrieved applicants, has called for a case-by-case reappraisal to ensure legitimate complaints are heard”.

The NCS explained that during the screening exercise, issues relating to substance abuse (cigarettes and alcohol exclusive), physical fitness, medical records, age and submitted documentation were identified among 397 applicants.

“Some candidates were also rejected due to identified irregularities in their selection process during the screening exercise. These findings underscore the Service’s commitment to upholding established recruitment standards and ensuring that only candidates who satisfy all prescribed requirements are considered for enlistment into the Service,” it said.

The Agency clarified further that inclusion in the final shortlist does not automatically guarantee enlistment into the Service.

According to the Service, “Recruitment into the NCS involves multiple stages of verification, including credential and document checks, physical and endurance assessments, medical examinations and age verification, drug screening and other mandatory requirements”.

It further urged all affected applicants who felt aggrieved by the outcome of the screening exercise to formally forward their details and complaints to helpdesk@customs.gov.ng, for genuine concerns to be clarified.

“Affected applicants are advised to provide accurate information to facilitate the examination of their cases. The initiative is intended to ensure that legitimate concerns receive appropriate attention while preserving the integrity, fairness and credibility of the recruitment process.

“Aggrieved candidates who wish to take advantage of the new window will be subjected to fresh screening. Where investigations establish criminal conduct, including certificate fraud or other offenses, the individuals involved will be referred for appropriate legal action and prosecution. The review of complaints will not constitute a waiver of established standards or an automatic guarantee of admission into training”.

Applicants and the general public are enjoined to remain calm and utilise the designated channel for the submission of complaints.

The Nigeria Customs Service NCS assured all concerned that the review will be guided by established procedures and the need to uphold the integrity of the Service.

The NCS also reaffirmed its commitment to a credible, transparent and accountable recruitment process under the leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR and its management members.

“While the Service remains open to genuine complaints from affected applicants, it will not compromise the standards required of personnel entrusted with national security, border protection, revenue collection and public safety responsibilities,” the statement concluded.