FG Shortlists Thousands for NSCDC, Immigration, and Fire Service CBT — Full Details Inside

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially shortlisted thousands of applicants for the 2025 recruitment exercise into the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and Federal Fire Service (FFS).

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This move signals a major step toward strengthening national security and creating job opportunities for Nigerian youths through a transparent, merit-based recruitment process.

The announcement was made on Thursday by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) — the body responsible for overseeing recruitments into the nation’s paramilitary agencies.

CBT to Begin Soon — FG Emphasizes Transparency

According to CDCFIB, the shortlisted candidates will soon sit for a Computer-Based Test (CBT) across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The CBT represents the next phase of screening after an initial review of online applications based on academic qualifications, age, and service requirements. Only those who pass this stage will move on to physical screening, document verification, and medical evaluation.

Candidates are urged to check their status only via the official CDCFIB recruitment portal to avoid scams or fake websites.

“The shortlisting is a continuation of the government’s commitment to merit, fairness, and transparency,” the board said. “No candidate is required to pay money or know anyone to succeed in this process.”

Massive Turnout Reflects Youths’ Hunger for Opportunity

Government sources revealed that more than 1.6 million Nigerians applied for various positions across the three agencies — an overwhelming figure that underscores the country’s growing unemployment rate and the passion of young Nigerians to serve their nation.

An official from the CDCFIB noted that while the number of available positions is limited, the selection process remains competitive and technology-driven.

“We want to give every applicant an equal chance. The CBT ensures that recruitment is based on knowledge and competence rather than connection or influence,” the source added.

Minister of Interior Reassures Candidates of Fair Process

Speaking on the development, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to transparency and digital reform across federal recruitment systems.

“This recruitment exercise is purely merit-based,” Tunji-Ojo stated. “We are using technology to remove human interference. It doesn’t matter who you know — what matters is your score, your integrity, and your ability to serve Nigeria.”

He emphasized that the new intakes would help close manpower gaps in national security, border control, and emergency response, which have all faced operational strain in recent years.

Public Excitement and Reactions

The shortlist announcement has sparked widespread excitement across social media platforms, with thousands of candidates expressing gratitude for being selected.

However, others who were not shortlisted have called for more transparency and appealed for future recruitment drives.

Security analysts have also commended the government for adopting a computer-based test system, describing it as a bold move to end favoritism and nepotism in paramilitary recruitments.

“This is the kind of process Nigerians have been demanding — one that rewards merit and integrity,” said Dr. Emmanuel Akinsola, a public affairs analyst. “It gives young people hope that government jobs can be earned, not bought.”

A Boost for National Security and Employment

The NSCDC, NIS, and FFS are among Nigeria’s most vital security and emergency response agencies.

• The NSCDC protects critical national infrastructure and provides internal security support.
• The NIS handles border protection, immigration control, and passport administration.
• The Fire Service manages disaster response, fire prevention, and emergency rescue operations.

Recruiting new personnel into these agencies is expected to strengthen their operational capacity and create thousands of federal jobs for Nigerians across states.

“Security is not just about guns and uniforms,” said a senior NSCDC official. “It’s about trained, motivated people. This recruitment will bring in young, energetic Nigerians ready to serve.”

Next Steps for Shortlisted Candidates

The CDCFIB urged all shortlisted candidates to check their email or SMS notifications for their CBT schedule, test centers, and other examination details.

Those who succeed in the CBT will be invited for physical screening and documentation, followed by medical evaluation before final deployment.

Applicants are strongly warned against paying anyone for assistance. The board reiterated that all recruitment processes are completely free of charge.

“Every shortlisted candidate has an equal opportunity. Do not fall for recruitment fraudsters or middlemen,” the CDCFIB warned.

The Bigger Picture

With Nigeria facing rising challenges in internal security, illegal migration, and fire emergencies, the latest recruitment drive is not just about job creation but a strategic investment in national stability and safety.

As the 2025 NSCDC recruitment and NIS CBT begin, thousands of Nigerian youths are preparing for one of the most competitive federal selection processes in recent years — a process that could determine the next generation of frontline officers keeping the nation safe.