Nigeria Customs Debunks Fake Recruitment Shortlist, Warns Public Against Online Scam
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strongly refuted a fraudulent press release circulating across social media platforms and messaging groups, which falsely claims that candidates have been shortlisted for a Computer-Based Test (CBT) as part of the Service’s ongoing recruitment exercise.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, the NCS described the circulating message as “fraudulent, misleading, and unauthorised.” The fake release reportedly claims that a CBT will hold in July 2025, a claim the NCS says has no basis in reality.
“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service has been drawn to a fake press release currently circulating on social media and other messaging platforms, falsely announcing the shortlist for a Computer-Based Test (CBT),” the statement read.
The Service emphasised that it has not made any such announcement and categorically disassociated itself from the information being spread.
According to the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the format of the forged document differs significantly from official NCS communications, including a suspicious e-signature and a recruitment timeline that is entirely inconsistent with any legitimate process.
“Upon close scrutiny, it is clear that the fake statement contains several discrepancies,” the statement noted. “The e-signature format differs from our official standard and the recruitment timeline mentioned shows a faulty structure not connected to any legitimate process.”
The NCS acknowledged the high level of interest among Nigerians in its recruitment process but urged applicants and the general public to rely only on verified sources for updates. Official information, it said, would only be released through the NCS website, verified social media handles, and reputable national newspapers.
The Service further stated that it is actively investigating the origin of the misinformation and pledged to take decisive action against those behind the deceptive release.
“When the Service is set to begin the next phase of the recruitment process, the public will be duly notified through appropriate channels,” Maiwada assured.
Commending the vigilance of concerned citizens who brought the issue to its attention, the Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of the public from misinformation.
The NCS also issued a stern warning to fraudsters attempting to exploit job-seeking Nigerians, stressing that any attempt to impersonate the Service or mislead the public will not go unpunished.
