Customs To Review Recruitment Complaints, Opens Complaint Channel For Aggrieved Applicants

By Stella Okocha

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has acknowledged complaints from some applicants who participated in its recent recruitment exercise but were screened out despite appearing on the shortlist, and has opened a window for case-by-case review.

In a statement on October 19, 2026, by Deputy Comptroller and National PRO, Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service said Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, after meeting with some aggrieved applicants, called for reappraisal to ensure legitimate complaints are heard.

The Service clarified that inclusion in final shortlist does not automatically guarantee enlistment.

“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 said.

During screening, issues relating to substance abuse (cigarettes and alcohol exclusive), physical fitness, medical records, age and documentation were identified among 397 applicants. Some candidates were also rejected due to irregularities in selection process during screening.

“These findings underscore the Service’s commitment to upholding established recruitment standards,” NCS stated.

To address concerns, the Service urged aggrieved candidates to forward details and complaints to helpdesk@customs.gov.ng with accurate information to facilitate examination of cases.

“This initiative is intended to ensure that legitimate concerns receive appropriate attention while preserving integrity, fairness and credibility of recruitment process,” it said.

Aggrieved candidates who take advantage of window will be subjected to fresh screening. Where criminal conduct such as certificate fraud is established, individuals will be referred for prosecution.

“The review of complaints will not constitute waiver of established standards or automatic guarantee of admission into training,” the Service stressed.

NCS urged applicants to remain calm and use designated channel, assuring review will be guided by established procedures.

It reaffirmed commitment under Adeniyi to credible, transparent and accountable recruitment process, noting it will not compromise standards required of personnel entrusted with national security, border protection, revenue collection and public safety.