Government & Federal Agency Recruitment in Nigeria 2026

Your complete, independent guide to federal government recruitment in Nigeria — the Police, Army, Customs, Immigration (NIS), Civil Defence (NSCDC) and other agencies. How each process works, the official portals, general requirements, the screening tests, and how to avoid the recruitment scams that trap thousands. Recruitment is free — keep it that way.

By Belmadeng Editorial · Updated 23 Sept 2026

Please note

Belmadeng is an independent study platform — we are not a recruiter and are not affiliated with any government agency, force or board. Genuine government recruitment is FREE at every stage: never pay anyone to apply, be shortlisted, or be enlisted, and no agent can “guarantee” you a slot. Apply only through official portals, and only when a cycle is officially open — windows open periodically and old links circulate. Portals, dates and requirements change — always confirm on the official channel.

Recruitment at a glance

CostFree at every stage — never pay to apply
Immigration & Civil DefenceCDCFIB portal (recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng) — also NCoS & Fire
PolicePSC / NPF (policerecruitment.gov.ng)
ArmyNigerian Army (recruitment.army.mil.ng)
Typical basicsNigerian citizen, NIN, 5 O'Level credits, age & fitness limits

How federal recruitment works

Most agencies follow the same shape: an online application on an official portal when a cycle opens, a shortlist, a CBT aptitude test and physical screening, document verification, then training and enlistment. General requirements are similar across forces, with each agency adding its own. It's all free.

Browse the guides

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Paramilitary (CDCFIB)

Forces & agencies

Looking for the EFCC? See our EFCC recruitment guide. Note: immigration services (passport, visa) and your NYSC service are different from recruitment — those are separate guides. Get your NIN ready first.

Frequently asked questions

Is government recruitment in Nigeria free?
Yes — legitimate federal recruitment (Police, Army, Customs, Immigration, Civil Defence and others) is free at every stage. No one can charge you to apply, shortlist you, or 'guarantee' a slot; anyone asking for money is a scammer.
How do I know when recruitment is open?
Recruitment runs in periodic cycles announced officially. Confirm an open window on the agency's official portal or verified government channels — don't trust blogs or WhatsApp groups claiming a portal is open when it isn't.
Which portal do I use for immigration and civil defence recruitment?
Both are handled together by the CDCFIB (Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board) via recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng / cdcfib.career — the same portal also covers the Correctional Service and Fire Service.
Do I need a NIN to apply?
Yes — most federal recruitment now requires a valid NIN to create your applicant profile, plus O'Level results and other documents depending on the agency and cadre.

Independent guide — not a recruiter, not affiliated with any agency. Recruitment is free; portals and dates change — confirm on the official channel.