The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has shifted the commencement date for its ongoing nationwide recruitment. Originally set to launch on Thursday, June 26, 2025, the application process will now begin on Monday, July 14, 2025. This adjustment affects all four major paramilitary agencies under its jurisdiction: the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

By implementing this revised date, the Board seeks to give applicants adequate preparation time while ensuring a smooth and secure recruitment process. This shift also reflects CDCFIB’s efforts to address technical and logistical issues that may hinder applicant access or cause confusion.

Official Portal Confirmed and Clarified

In addition to rescheduling the launch, the CDCFIB clarified the correct recruitment portal address. It confirmed that www.cdcfib.gov.ng remains the only official platform for all online applications. This confirmation comes in response to misleading online publications and unauthorized websites that have misrepresented the recruitment process.

Importantly, the Board strongly advised applicants to avoid fake platforms and rely solely on the verified web address. According to its statement, “The recruitment portal, earlier slated to open on June 26, will now be accessible from July 14. All prospective applicants must use the official website at www.cdcfib.gov.ng.”

By reinforcing this update, the Board hopes to prevent candidates from falling victim to cyber scams or unauthorized intermediaries posing as official agents.

Application Process Remains Completely Free

To protect applicants from fraud, the CDCFIB emphasized that the entire application process is 100% free. It firmly warned against any payment or financial transaction linked to the application, shortlisting, or recruitment process. This policy serves as a safeguard against fake agents who exploit job seekers through false promises of guaranteed selection.

The Board reminded candidates that they should report anyone requesting payment in exchange for application assistance. In past recruitment cycles, fraudulent agents collected fees from desperate applicants, leading to financial loss and disillusionment. This time, the Board assures transparency, fairness, and accessibility to all eligible Nigerians.

Expanding the Workforce: Why This Recruitment Matters

This recruitment exercise represents one of the most expansive hiring campaigns in Nigeria’s paramilitary sector. It comes at a time when national security challenges, border control concerns, urban fire emergencies, and overcrowded correctional facilities demand immediate manpower reinforcements.

By offering thousands of openings across four agencies, the CDCFIB aims to close workforce gaps and enhance operational efficiency. Previous efforts, including a similar recruitment round in 2023, attracted over 1.5 million applicants competing for limited slots, highlighting the urgency to absorb more qualified personnel into public service.

This year’s campaign offers new hope for eligible Nigerians seeking stable federal employment and an opportunity to serve the nation in critical roles.

Recruitment Categories and Available Positions

The recruitment drive features three main job categories tailored to different educational and vocational levels. These categories include the Superintendent Cadre, Inspectorate Cadre, and Assistant Cadre. Candidates from various academic backgrounds—from SSCE to university graduates—will find roles that match their qualifications.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the available roles:

• Assistant Superintendent of Fire (CONPASS 09): Open to candidates with degrees in Engineering or Law who intend to join the Federal Fire Service.

• Assistant Superintendent II (CONPASS 08): Suitable for applicants with Higher National Diploma (HND) or Bachelor’s degrees across all four paramilitary services.

• Senior Inspector of Fire (CONPASS 08): Designed for Registered Nurses and Midwives looking to contribute to emergency response and fire service operations.

• Assistant III (CONPASS 03): Targeted at SSCE holders capable of handling basic security and correctional duties.

• Artisans and Drivers: Reserved for candidates with Trade Test Certificates and valid driver’s licenses, with skills in mechanics, carpentry, or other technical trades.

Each position offers a clear career path with opportunities for advancement through training and performance-based promotions.

Eligibility Requirements for All Applicants

To qualify for the recruitment exercise, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring they are physically and morally fit for paramilitary service. The key requirements include:

• Nigerian citizenship by birth

• Age between 18 and 35 years

• Minimum height of 1.65 meters for males and 1.60 meters for females

• Medical fitness as certified by a government hospital

• No previous criminal conviction or record of financial misconduct

• Absence of affiliations with cults, fraternities, or banned organizations

By upholding these standards, the CDCFIB aims to maintain a disciplined, trustworthy, and capable workforce across all its paramilitary branches.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Starting July 14, 2025, eligible candidates can access the official portal and begin the application process by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website: www.cdcfib.gov.ng

2. Create a personal profile with accurate information, including full name, contact details, educational background, and service preference.

3. Upload all required documents, including academic certificates, birth certificate, national ID, and passport photograph.

4. Select your preferred paramilitary service and position based on your qualifications.

5. Submit the application and print the confirmation slip for future reference.

Once the portal closes, shortlisted applicants will undergo further stages of screening, including physical verification, medical checks, and written aptitude tests.

Board Issues Apology for Rescheduling

While acknowledging that the sudden date change may have inconvenienced some applicants, the CDCFIB issued a public apology and assured candidates that the decision was necessary. According to board officials, the extra time will help ensure the portal is fully secured and technically optimized to handle high volumes of applicants.

The delay also allows for thorough cross-agency coordination and minimizes potential errors during data processing and selection.

Learning from the Past: A New Approach to Transparency

Previous recruitment exercises under CDCFIB and its agencies faced criticism over delayed timelines, portal crashes, and opaque selection procedures. In 2021, the Nigeria Immigration Service had to postpone its screening tests due to technical malfunctions. Similarly, the Federal Fire Service drew public backlash in 2022 over inconsistent shortlisting criteria.

Determined not to repeat these challenges, the Board has now integrated digital improvements, enhanced portal security, and clearly defined roles for each recruitment stage. These upgrades aim to restore public trust and ensure that merit—not influence—determines who gets hired.

Applicants Urged to Stay Informed and Alert

As the new recruitment date approaches, applicants must remain informed, cautious, and proactive. Relying solely on information from the official CDCFIB portal and verified government channels remains critical. Fraudulent social media groups, WhatsApp forums, and rogue agents continue to mislead the public with fake updates and false promises.

Applicants should avoid shortcuts, maintain accurate documentation, and stay updated on developments via the official website. The Board has pledged to provide timely updates on screening dates, test centers, and final selection lists.

Conclusion: A Pathway to Public Service

This recruitment marks a significant opportunity for thousands of Nigerians to enter meaningful public service roles that directly impact national security, fire safety, and correctional reform. With adequate preparation, adherence to the guidelines, and awareness of fraudulent schemes, qualified candidates stand a strong chance of success.

As the July 14 application date draws near, now is the time for interested Nigerians to gather their documents, meet the criteria, and prepare to join the nation’s paramilitary workforce in shaping a safer, more resilient Nigeria.