For hundreds of thousands of Nigerians chasing scarce government jobs, hope and anxiety collided this week as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) unveiled its long-awaited recruitment shortlist.
Out of more than half a million applications submitted, 286,697 names made the cut, a staggering figure that instantly set social media buzzing and fueled fresh waves of anticipation.
But behind the celebration lies a sobering reality: there are only 3,927 actual positions available. In other words, for every candidate called forward, dozens more will eventually be turned back.
For many, this feels less like a guarantee of employment and more like an invitation into a national lottery where the odds are brutally stacked.
Still, for those who have battled unemployment, written countless applications, or endured the heartbreak of rejection in the past, even this shortlist represents a rare sliver of opportunity.
From crowded cybercafés to rural homes with shaky internet, shortlisted candidates are now gearing up for the next decisive stage: the Computer-Based Test (CBT) that will make or break their dream of joining the Customs Service.
What the Customs Service Announced
Disclosing details in a statement on Wednesday, the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, explained that the recruitment exercise began with a public advertisement in national newspapers on December 27, 2024.
He said: “The Service received 573,523 applications during the initial phase, and after rigorous documentary screening, nearly half of the applicants have been cleared to participate in the upcoming CBT.”
The Service emphasised that the exam will be conducted entirely online and must be taken on a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam. Mobile phones will not be allowed.
Applicants will undergo facial verification at login, and candidates have been advised to maintain a neat appearance to avoid recognition issues.
“The CBT application is highly sensitive to noise, body movements, and distractions. Candidates must remain fully focused throughout the test. Excessive movement, whispering, or background interference may result in automatic logout. Switching between windows will be flagged as malpractice and may lead to disqualification,” the Service warned.
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To aid preparation, the NCS has scheduled a mandatory practice test two days before the main CBT. According to the Service, shortlisted candidates will receive two links: one for the mock session and another for the actual exam.
Applicants vying for the Superintendent Cadre (Level 8) will undergo an additional CBT in a later phase, while those in the Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres will not be required to sit for this extra round.
Maiwada assured that the entire recruitment process remains transparent, merit-driven, and professional, adding that successful candidates will be contacted through official communication channels only.
What Candidates Are Expected to Do Next
* Shortlisted candidates must ensure they are ready for an online CBT. This includes having access to a desktop or laptop (mobile phones will not be accepted).
* Webcam access and facial verification will be required. Candidates must avoid background distractions and stay focused during the test to avoid disqualification.
* A pre-test will be provided a few days before the main test to familiarise applicants with the CBT format.
Why This Matters Beyond the Numbers
For many, this recruitment round is more than just filling empty positions; it’s about transparency, opportunity, and the promise of merit. Considering how many Nigerians are unemployed or underemployed, even getting shortlisted is a sigh of relief. But because only a small fraction of those shortlisted will actually be employed, the inevitable disappointment looms large.
Also, the online nature of the test and the strict technical requirements (computer + webcam + verified environment) may disadvantage some applicants, especially those in areas with poor internet or without access to proper hardware. It raises questions about equal access and fairness.
