The Federal Government has directed candidates shortlisted for recruitment into Nigeria's paramilitary services to undergo mandatory drug testing before receiving their appointment letters, as preparations continue for the first batch of 30,000 personnel.
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) announced the directive on Thursday, October 22, 2026, following its meeting in Abuja. The board's Secretary, retired Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin, disclosed that the recruitment portal would reopen on October 28 and remain accessible until November 13.
Jibrin explained that candidates who had reached the oral interview stage would be required to log into the portal, confirm their recruitment status and obtain a code for the compulsory drug screening.
The tests will be conducted at designated offices of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) across the country.
According to the board secretary, successful candidates must present certificates confirming that they are free from illegal drug use before proceeding to Abuja to collect their appointment letters.
He explained that the requirement was introduced in compliance with a Federal Government directive aimed at ensuring that prospective personnel meet the necessary standards before joining the services.
Jibrin also clarified that the drug tests would be conducted free of charge, with the Federal Government bearing the cost.
He warned that candidates should not make payments to individuals or organisations claiming to facilitate the screening process. Anyone asked to pay for the exercise was advised to report the incident to the nearest security agency.
The recruitment covers four agencies: the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Correctional Service and Federal Fire Service.
Jibrin said the ongoing exercise represents the first phase of President Bola Tinubu's plan to recruit 120,000 personnel into the country's paramilitary services during his first four-year tenure.
The board urged eligible applicants to comply with the screening requirements and complete the necessary procedures within the announced period.
The reopening of the portal is intended for candidates already participating in the recruitment process and does not constitute a fresh application exercise.
The board maintained that completion of the mandatory drug screening and presentation of the required certification would be necessary before successful applicants could receive their appointment letters.
Stone Reporters News
stonereportersnews.com
info@stonereportersnews.com | Facebook: Stone Reporters News | X: @StoneReportNew | Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments