NSCDC, Immigration recruitment drags on as board extends drug test deadline

The ongoing recruitment exercise into the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Fire Service and Nigeria Immigration Service has been extended by two weeks, following difficulties encountered by shortlisted candidates in completing the mandatory documentation and drug integrity test.

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), which oversees the recruitment, announced that candidates now have until 11:59pm on Saturday, November 28, 2026, to complete their recruitment requirements and undergo the mandatory Drug Integrity Test conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The extension, which affects the 2024/2025 recruitment exercise, followed complaints by applicants over network challenges, difficulties accessing the NDLEA testing portal and other genuine constraints experienced during the initial period.

The Board disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday through its official X handle and electronically signed by its Secretary, Major General (rtd.) A.M. Jibril.

According to the Board, the additional two weeks will enable shortlisted candidates to book appointments and complete their NDLEA Drug Integrity Test at designated centres across the country.

It explained that the extension was necessary to ensure that qualified applicants were not denied the opportunity to participate in the recruitment process because of technical challenges or other genuine difficulties beyond their control.

The Board, however, stressed that the drug integrity test remains free, warning applicants against individuals or groups demanding money under the guise of facilitating appointments, testing or the release of results.

“No candidate should pay any money to any person for booking, testing, result or assistance,” the statement warned.

It further cautioned that any staff member, agent or third party found collecting money from applicants in connection with the recruitment exercise would be arrested and prosecuted.

The Board urged shortlisted candidates who were yet to complete the required processes to take advantage of the extended deadline and conclude their documentation and drug tests without delay.

It also advised applicants against waiting until the final days of the exercise, warning that last-minute attempts could expose them to further network disruptions and congestion at designated testing centres.

Candidates were equally advised to rely exclusively on the official CDCFIB recruitment portal and the Board’s verified social media platforms for authentic information and updates concerning the exercise.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent, fair and merit-based recruitment process, while appreciating the cooperation of the NDLEA, applicants and other stakeholders.