In a significant update for job seekers across Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially announced the closure of the email validation portal as part of its ongoing 2025 recruitment exercise. This move signals the next phase in the highly competitive hiring process, which has drawn thousands of applications since its launch earlier this year. If you're one of the successful applicants, here's everything you need to know to stay ahead and avoid potential pitfalls.

Background on the NCS 2025 Recruitment Drive

The NCS recruitment for 2025 kicked off with applications opening on December 27, 2024, and closing on January 2, 2025. Aimed at bolstering the agency's workforce in areas such as customs administration, border security, logistics, and technical roles, the exercise targeted over 1,000 positions across various cadres, including Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Assistant roles. Shortlisting began in earnest over the summer, with initial notifications sent via email to qualifying candidates based on their submitted credentials, including academic qualifications, NYSC certificates, and National Identification Numbers (NIN).

To ensure smooth communication, shortlisted applicants were directed to the dedicated recruitment portal at updates.customs.gov.ng. There, they could log in using their NIN to verify and update their email addresses—a critical step to receive official updates without delays. This validation window was extended briefly to accommodate technical glitches reported by some users, such as login issues or unconfirmed emails, but it has now been firmly shut down.

Key Details from the Official Notice

The NCS issued a formal notice on September 17, 2025, via its official channels, including the agency's website (customs.gov.ng), social media handles (@customsNG on X, Facebook, and Instagram), and email blasts. The announcement reads in part:

> "The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to inform all successful applicants in the ongoing recruitment exercise that the portal for the validation of email addresses has been officially closed. All successful applicants are hereby assured that the date for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and the official access link will be communicated directly to all shortlisted candidates in due course."

The service emphasized its appreciation for applicants' patience and cooperation throughout the process. Crucially, it reiterated a strong warning against scams: All genuine updates regarding the recruitment will be conveyed through official NCS communication channels only. This includes emails from verified NCS domains (e.g., @customs.gov.ng), posts on official social media, and announcements on the main website.

For those who may have missed the validation deadline, the NCS has clarified that no further extensions will be granted. However, if your email was validated prior to closure, you remain in the pool for the upcoming CBT.

Next Steps for Shortlisted Applicants

As the recruitment advances to the aptitude testing stage, here's a quick guide to prepare:

1. Monitor Your Inbox Regularly: Keep an eye on the email address you registered (and validated) for direct notifications about the CBT schedule. Expect details like the test date, venue (likely computer centers in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt), and a unique access link. The CBT is expected to assess general knowledge, numerical reasoning, verbal ability, and role-specific competencies.

2. Prepare for the Test: Brush up on current affairs, basic customs regulations (e.g., ECOWAS trade protocols, tariff schedules), and standard psychometric questions. Free resources like past JAMB or civil service exam prep materials can be helpful starters.

3. Beware of Fraudsters: Scammers often pose as NCS officials, demanding fees for "portal access" or "guaranteed shortlisting." Remember, the NCS does not charge for any stage of the recruitment. Report suspicious activities to the agency's whistleblower line or via their official social media.

4. Stay Updated via Official Sources: Follow @customsNG on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for real-time alerts. The QR code on the notice poster links directly to the NCS recruitment FAQ page for more info.

Why This Matters for Aspiring Customs Officers

Joining the NCS isn't just a job—it's a gateway to a stable career in Nigeria's federal service, with benefits like competitive salaries (starting at ₦70,000–₦150,000 monthly depending on cadre), pension schemes, housing allowances, and opportunities for international postings. With Nigeria's economy increasingly reliant on trade and border management, roles in customs are more vital than ever amid challenges like smuggling and revenue generation targets.

The closure of the validation portal is a clear indicator that the NCS is streamlining operations to ensure fairness and efficiency. Successful applicants can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their next steps are imminent, while others are encouraged to eye future opportunities—rumors suggest another round could open in 2026.