The Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, commonly referred to as CDCFIB, is a vital federal recruitment body under the Ministry of Interior in Nigeria. In line with its 2025 recruitment agenda, the Board has officially declared open its nationwide recruitment exercise and hereby invites applications from suitably qualified and interested Nigerians who are passionate about building a career in national security, civil protection, border control, correctional rehabilitation, or emergency fire response services. The CDCFIB oversees the recruitment process into four major paramilitary and public safety agencies, namely: the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Federal Fire Service (FFS). These agencies play vital roles in safeguarding lives, protecting property, enhancing national security, managing correctional facilities, enforcing immigration laws, and responding to fire-related emergencies across Nigeria. This recruitment call presents a significant opportunity for eligible Nigerian citizens, both graduates and school leavers—to enter into federal service and contribute meaningfully to the safety, stability, and development of the nation. The Board is calling on applicants who possess the right educational qualifications, character, fitness, and interest in civil or uniformed service to seize this moment and apply for the available positions. Applicants may apply for positions that match their credentials, ranging from entry-level roles to professional officer cadres, which include categories for holders of SSCE, National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Bachelor’s degrees (B.Sc./B.A), and even postgraduate qualifications depending on the position being sought. All applications are expected to follow the Board’s official application process, which will be made available through designated channels. Candidates must be Nigerian by birth, must have a valid means of identification such as the National Identification Number (NIN), must be of sound mind and character, and must be physically and medically fit to withstand the demands of paramilitary service. Candidates are also expected to be within the age bracket specified for each role and should not have any criminal record or pending court case. This recruitment process will include online registration, screening of credentials, physical verification, Computer-Based Testing (CBT), and final selection for training. All information about eligibility, qualifications, application deadlines, required documents, and assessment dates will be communicated through official platforms associated with the CDCFIB and the four agencies involved. Interested candidates are advised to stay informed, prepare all required documentation, and apply only through the approved recruitment portal. This is a call to national service and a chance to join forces with thousands of committed men and women already working daily to uphold law, order, and public safety in the country. Whether your interest lies in national defense, border security, fire emergency response, or prison reform and rehabilitation, this recruitment exercise provides a unique platform to begin or advance your career in one of Nigeria’s most respected uniformed services. Candidates are encouraged to submit accurate information, avoid fraudulent agents, and follow application instructions carefully to avoid disqualification.
Roles Available:
The Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has officially opened its portal for nationwide recruitment into four key paramilitary services under the Ministry of Interior. This recruitment drive offers a wide range of opportunities for qualified Nigerians across various academic levels, ranging from secondary school leavers to postgraduate degree holders. The positions currently available fall under three main categories: Superintendents, Inspectors, and Assistants. The Superintendent Cadre is open to applicants who possess B.Sc., HND, or M.Sc. qualifications in relevant disciplines and are interested in joining as senior officers with responsibilities that may include administration, operations, intelligence, or technical oversight. For the Inspector Cadre, the Board invites candidates with NCE, National Diploma (ND), or other equivalent qualifications. This category is suitable for mid-level professionals ready to serve in operational, technical, or supervisory roles. The Assistant Cadre is designed for applicants with SSCE (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB) qualifications, offering them an opportunity to serve as entry-level officers and build their careers from the foundation within any of the four agencies: Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and Federal Fire Service (FFS). The application process officially begins on the 21st of July, 2025, and all interested candidates are strongly advised to prepare their documents and ensure they meet the requirements of the role they are applying for. This recruitment exercise represents a rare and prestigious opportunity to serve the country while developing a stable and rewarding career within the public safety and civil defense sector.
Applications Open: 21st July 2025
As part of the 2025 nationwide recruitment campaign, the Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has categorized available vacancies across the four agencies under its jurisdiction to cater to candidates from different educational and professional backgrounds. These categories include the Superintendent Cadre, the Inspectorate Cadre, and the Assistant Cadre, each with tailored roles and requirements to accommodate a diverse range of applicants.
For the Superintendent Cadre, CDCFIB is calling on individuals with Bachelor’s Degrees (B.Sc., B.A.), Higher National Diplomas (HND), and Master’s Degrees (M.Sc.) in relevant fields. These applicants are expected to fill senior officer positions across the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), and the Federal Fire Service (FFS). Positions within this cadre involve leadership, intelligence, operations, investigations, administration, ICT, and specialized services. Candidates must possess a NYSC discharge certificate or valid exemption letter, alongside other academic and professional documents.
The Inspectorate Cadre is targeted at mid-level professionals with National Diploma (ND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), or equivalent qualifications. Successful candidates in this category will be considered for positions such as Assistant Inspectors and Inspectors, where responsibilities may include direct operational support, supervision of junior personnel, data entry, logistics support, and technical fieldwork depending on the agency’s need.
The Assistant Cadre offers opportunities for entry-level applicants with Senior Secondary School Certificates (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB). This is an important category as it opens federal paramilitary employment to school leavers, providing them a pathway into public service and future career growth. Roles in this cadre typically include Assistant Officers, Firemen, Warders, and Immigration Assistants tasked with foundational but essential functions such as gatekeeping, rescue support, facility maintenance, community engagement, and field mobilization.
The CDCFIB has emphasized that this recruitment exercise is merit-based and in accordance with federal character guidelines. All applicants will be subjected to thorough documentation reviews, Computer-Based Testing (CBT), physical screening, and background verification. Applicants must ensure that they are within the prescribed age range for each cadre, are physically and mentally fit, and are free from any form of criminal conviction. Proof of medical fitness from a government hospital, National Identification Number (NIN), and verifiable credentials are among the essential requirements for shortlisting.
Furthermore, applicants are encouraged to prepare for potential interviews and physical fitness tests, depending on the position applied for. The entire process is digitized, and candidates must complete their applications through the official CDCFIB recruitment portal. Fraudulent submissions, falsification of documents, and multiple applications are grounds for automatic disqualification.
The Board strongly warns against patronizing unofficial sources, agents, or individuals claiming to offer placement for a fee. This recruitment is entirely free of charge, and all updates, guidelines, and announcements will be posted via verified channels of the CDCFIB and its constituent agencies.
In conclusion, this recruitment drive by the Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board stands as a rare opportunity for Nigerian youths and experienced professionals alike to join forces in strengthening the nation’s internal security and public safety framework. Whether you are passionate about protecting citizens, managing correctional reforms, supporting border integrity, or combating fire emergencies, this is your opportunity to serve. Interested and qualified individuals are therefore urged to visit the recruitment portal, choose the appropriate cadre, and submit their applications before the official closing date.
This nationwide exercise spans across four agencies:
- Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Federal Fire Service (FFS)
- Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)
Eligible Nigerian applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for positions within the 2025 CDCFIB recruitment exercise according to the qualification category that best matches their academic background. The recruitment structure has been thoughtfully categorized to allow for a fair and inclusive process across varying levels of education, ensuring that capable and qualified individuals from diverse academic tiers have the opportunity to serve the nation. Applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria for each cadre and submit their applications accordingly. The first category available is the Superintendent Cadre, which is designed for candidates who have obtained higher academic qualifications such as a Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc. or B.A.), a Higher National Diploma (HND), or a Master’s Degree (M.Sc.). These roles are typically suited for professionals with specialized training and educational backgrounds and may include administrative, managerial, or operational functions across the four services—namely the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Correctional Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Federal Fire Service. Applicants in this category will be considered for officer-level appointments and are expected to demonstrate leadership potential, critical thinking, and a solid grasp of institutional and national responsibilities.
The second category is the Inspectorate Cadre, which caters specifically to those who possess a National Diploma (ND) or a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). This middle-level category is vital to the operational strength of the services and is structured to include a range of technical and support roles. Candidates who fall under this cadre are often engaged in supervision, implementation of policy directives, and core fieldwork that supports the operational goals of the agencies. The Inspectorate Cadre serves as a bridge between the senior officers and the field personnel, and successful applicants will be expected to carry out key responsibilities that uphold discipline, public order, and paramilitary effectiveness. This cadre plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of national security operations.
The third category is the Assistant Cadre, which is open to those who have obtained their Secondary School Certificates (SSCE), whether through the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the National Examinations Council (NECO), or the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB). This category is intended for entry-level personnel who will be involved in foundational service duties, including support, logistics, field operations, and various enforcement-related tasks. Applicants within this cadre are often the first responders in many operational situations and are expected to display courage, discipline, commitment to duty, and the willingness to undergo rigorous training and field exposure. These positions serve as a critical entry point for young Nigerians interested in building a career within Nigeria’s paramilitary services and offer significant opportunities for professional growth, in-service training, and eventual promotion through merit and service.
In all cases, candidates are expected to meet additional general requirements, such as being Nigerian by birth, possessing a valid form of identification (such as the National Identification Number), having a clean criminal record, being medically and physically fit for service, and falling within the approved age bracket for the desired cadre. The selection process will involve online registration, submission of relevant academic and personal documents, screening and verification, computer-based testing, physical fitness assessments, and interviews. The Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) will only consider applications submitted through the official portal, and any deviation from the stated process may lead to disqualification. Applicants are urged to pay attention to details, provide accurate information, avoid manipulation or use of fake documents, and apply in good faith, as integrity remains a core value across all four services. This opportunity provides a pathway for thousands of Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to national development, and each qualification level, whether for Superintendents, Inspectors, or Assistant, comes with its own unique responsibilities, benefits, and professional rewards.
Responsibilities
What You’ll Do:
Successful candidates who are eventually selected to serve under the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) will be assigned a wide range of critical national tasks that are essential to internal stability, citizen protection, and border management across Nigeria. These tasks vary depending on the department or corps to which a candidate is posted, but each one plays a crucial role in maintaining peace, upholding public safety, and ensuring the continued strength of Nigeria’s paramilitary institutions. In terms of internal and national security operations, selected candidates will work closely with command officers to provide frontline support in safeguarding critical infrastructure such as government buildings, transportation hubs, oil pipelines, water dams, and other national assets that are essential to the nation’s economic stability and security. These operations may involve manning checkpoints, observing suspicious activities, controlling large crowds during national events, and preventing sabotage or terrorism in high-risk zones. In the area of immigration duties, candidates may be assigned to work at international airports, seaports, or land border crossings where they will assist in the enforcement of immigration laws, help manage cross-border movements, and monitor compliance with entry and exit requirements. This includes collaborating with customs officers, reviewing visa documentation, handling deportation logistics, and preventing illegal migration or trafficking activities.
If posted to the Fire Service, candidates will support the rescue and firefighting operations by learning how to respond swiftly to fire outbreaks in both urban and rural areas, operate fire-fighting equipment under supervision, and participate in life-saving missions during emergencies such as building collapses, road accidents, natural disasters, or chemical spills. They will be trained in first aid, crisis coordination, and public evacuation strategies to ensure minimal casualties and maximum response efficiency. Those assigned to correctional facilities under the Nigerian Correctional Service will aid in managing inmate populations across federal and state prisons. Duties will include conducting routine cell inspections, maintaining order within custodial centres, ensuring inmates comply with correctional rules, and participating in rehabilitation programs aimed at reintegrating offenders into society. All candidates will be required to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to the core values of discipline, patriotism, honesty, and service integrity. Ethical conduct is paramount, and all personnel must be diligent in resisting any form of corruption, abuse of power, or violation of human rights.
Field training is a compulsory part of the onboarding process, and every successful applicant will undergo rigorous physical drills, endurance building, classroom lectures, tactical simulation exercises, and weapons handling (where applicable), all designed to prepare them for real-life operations and emergencies. Obedience to command and teamwork will be emphasized, as each candidate is expected to function efficiently under pressure, take orders from superiors, and cooperate seamlessly with fellow officers in all assigned duties. The capacity to follow chain of command, report incidents accurately, maintain situational awareness, and act promptly during national emergencies will be continuously assessed and monitored. Candidates may also be asked to join in joint task force operations with other security agencies, participate in anti-vandalism patrols, engage in public awareness campaigns, or represent their departments at government functions. Whether assisting in the protection of Nigeria’s borders, managing custodial populations, extinguishing dangerous fires, or defending against threats to public safety, each recruit must stay alert, committed, and prepared to serve at any time and in any location within the country. They must maintain good physical health, comply with dress codes, attend regular drills, uphold public trust, and build a reputation for integrity and competence in service. Every task, no matter how routine or complex, will contribute to the mission of building a more secure, disciplined, and resilient Nigeria for all.
Requirements
What You Bring:
To be considered eligible for the 2025 recruitment exercise organized by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), candidates must meet several important requirements that demonstrate their readiness for national paramilitary service. Firstly, all applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth. This requirement is non-negotiable, as the positions are designed to serve and protect the interest of the nation. Dual nationals or individuals who obtained citizenship through naturalization are not qualified for this specific recruitment drive. Additionally, the acceptable age range for all candidates falls between 18 and 35 years. This age criterion ensures that the individuals selected are physically and mentally agile enough to cope with the demanding tasks of the services under CDCFIB, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS). Birth certificates or valid age declaration documents will be required to confirm that applicants meet this specification. Another physical requirement that all candidates must satisfy is height. Male applicants are expected to have a minimum height of 1.65 meters, while female applicants must measure at least 1.60 meters. These height limits help determine physical suitability for field and operational duties. Furthermore, all candidates must be physically and mentally fit for service. This means that applicants should be in good health and capable of enduring the physical training and stress that accompany paramilitary service. Individuals with debilitating medical conditions or mental health issues that could impair their performance in active service will not be accepted. It is also crucial that applicants possess a clean criminal record. Any previous convictions or involvement in unlawful activities will lead to outright disqualification. Background checks will be conducted during the recruitment process to ensure that all shortlisted candidates meet this standard of moral and legal uprightness. On the academic front, every applicant must present valid educational qualifications that align with the position they are applying for. Superintendents are required to hold a Bachelor’s Degree, Higher National Diploma (HND), or Master’s Degree (M.Sc.); Inspectors must have an Ordinary National Diploma (OND), National Diploma (ND), or Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE); and Assistants are expected to present a Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) or its equivalent, such as WAEC, NECO, or GCE. Failure to meet these educational qualifications automatically disqualifies the applicant from progressing. In today’s digital world, computer literacy is an added advantage. Candidates who have basic computing skills, such as email usage, internet navigation, Microsoft Office proficiency, or database entry knowledge, will likely have an edge, especially in roles that require administrative or surveillance technology use. Finally, applicants are strictly advised to apply to only one of the four agencies under the CDCFIB umbrella. Any attempt to submit multiple applications to more than one agency will be detected and will result in automatic disqualification from the entire recruitment process. The selection process is competitive and transparent, and all applicants are encouraged to follow the instructions carefully and submit accurate, honest, and verifiable information to stand a good chance of selection.
Application Closing Date
11th August 2025 (3 weeks from date of opening)
How to Apply
To apply for the ongoing recruitment exercise by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), all interested and eligible candidates are required to submit their applications strictly through the official CDCFIB recruitment portal, which can be accessed by visiting: http://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng. Applicants should ensure they have a stable internet connection and a valid email address before starting the process. It is important to carefully read through the guidelines on the portal to understand the requirements for each position, as well as the documents that must be uploaded. These typically include academic credentials, passport photographs, means of identification, and other relevant supporting documents. During the registration process, candidates will be required to fill out a comprehensive form that captures personal data, educational background, and service preferences. Accuracy is crucial, as false or misleading information can lead to automatic disqualification at any stage of the recruitment. Once the form is completed, candidates should review their application carefully before submitting, as only one application is permitted per applicant. The CDCFIB has made it clear that multiple applications from the same individual will not be tolerated and will result in outright disqualification. Therefore, candidates are advised to apply only once and to ensure their submission reflects their qualifications and interests. After successful submission, applicants may receive confirmation via email or SMS, and should regularly check the recruitment portal or their inbox for updates on screening dates, examination requirements, and interview invitations. Early application is highly encouraged, as this allows for prompt review and reduces the risk of last-minute errors or technical issues.
Note: Only one application is allowed per applicant. Multiple applications will be disqualified.
If you encounter any issues while submitting your application form on the official CDCFIB recruitment portal, it is important to remain calm and follow a few practical steps to resolve the problem. First, ensure that you are using a strong and stable internet connection, as unstable networks can disrupt the application process or cause certain sections of the form to load improperly. If the form gets stuck during completion, refresh the page gently and allow it to reload fully before attempting again. In cases where the application link appears to be broken or displays an error message, do not panic. This may occur due to high traffic on the website, server maintenance, or temporary downtime. It is advisable to wait a few minutes and try again later, preferably during off-peak hours such as early in the morning or late at night. Always make sure you are entering the correct URL: https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng, and avoid using unofficial or redirected web links.
Before restarting the application, clear your browser cache or try using a different web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for better compatibility. While completing the form, have all necessary documents, such as your certificate(s), means of identification, passport photo, and NIN, ready in clearly scanned formats (PDF or JPEG), and ensure your device supports file uploads. If the form fails to submit after multiple attempts, check for any missed mandatory fields or incorrect entries that need to be corrected.
After successfully completing and submitting the application form, you should receive an on-screen confirmation or a message indicating successful submission. In some cases, a confirmation email or SMS may follow. You are advised to keep a screenshot or printout of the confirmation page or reference number for future tracking and reference. At this stage, do not submit another application, as multiple entries will lead to disqualification. Instead, stay informed by frequently visiting the official portal for updates regarding screening dates, exam centers, and further stages in the recruitment process. Also, monitor your email inbox and spam folder for important notifications from CDCFIB. Patience and vigilance are key during this phase, and applicants are strongly advised to avoid unofficial platforms, agents, or fraudulent personnel claiming to provide shortcuts or influence over the recruitment outcome. Following these tips will help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for more than one agency?
No, you cannot apply for more than one agency during this recruitment exercise conducted by the Civil Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB). Each applicant is strictly limited to only one application for one of the four federal paramilitary agencies under the board. These include the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). The CDCFIB has made it clear that any candidate who attempts to submit multiple applications or apply to more than one agency at the same time will be automatically disqualified from the recruitment process. This disqualification will apply even if the duplicate entries were unintentional or submitted through different devices or networks. It is, therefore, in your best interest to carefully evaluate the recruitment requirements of each agency before proceeding to fill and submit your application. You are advised to review your academic qualifications, physical fitness, personal interest in a specific agency, and the duties associated with the available roles to determine which agency aligns best with your profile. Making this decision early and applying decisively to one agency will not only preserve your eligibility but also improve your chances of progressing smoothly through the selection stages. It is crucial to remain honest, focused, and patient throughout the application process, and ensure that you follow all official instructions as clearly stated on the official CDCFIB recruitment portal. Always remember that quality, accuracy, and compliance are valued over multiple attempts. By choosing one agency and committing to that application, you show seriousness and professionalism, which are traits that the selection panel highly respects.
When is the portal closing?
The CDCFIB recruitment portal is currently active, but the official closing date for the 2025 application cycle has not been publicly announced by the board at the time of this publication. While it is common for applicants to wait until the last few days before applying, this practice is strongly discouraged due to the possibility of high traffic volumes causing delays, login failures, or system timeouts. As such, it is highly recommended that prospective candidates begin and complete their applications as early as possible. Applying early gives you enough time to correct errors, upload your documents properly, and ensure all details are accurate before submission. Submitting late increases your chances of being affected by server overload, incomplete uploads, or technical difficulties which may jeopardize your entire application. Moreover, early submission puts you in a better position to track your application status and prepare ahead for the next stage. You should make it a habit to regularly check the official CDCFIB recruitment portal at https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng for any updates, public notices, or last-minute changes to the deadline or process. The portal may close suddenly after the official announcement is made, and once closed, no additional applications will be accepted. Waiting for the deadline announcement before acting may cause unnecessary panic, rush, or missed opportunities. Therefore, responsible candidates will treat the current window as time-sensitive and submit their applications without delay. Also, note that in some past recruitment exercises, portals closed earlier than expected due to overwhelming submissions. Avoid this scenario by taking action now. Your early response could be the key to securing a favorable placement.
What documents will I need at screening?
At the screening stage of the CDCFIB recruitment, shortlisted applicants will be required to present a number of documents that verify their identity, academic history, and eligibility for the position they applied for. It is your responsibility to prepare and safeguard these documents early, preferably after submission of your online form. Among the documents you must present are your original academic certificates, along with clear photocopies. These may include your SSCE (WAEC, NECO, or GCE), NCE, National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc), or Master of Science (M.Sc), depending on your qualification and the role you applied for. In addition to academic records, you will need a birth certificate or a sworn declaration of age, a valid certificate of origin obtained from your local government, and a recognized form of identification such as the National Identity Card (NIN slip or card), Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), Driver’s License, or International Passport. You will also be expected to submit recent passport photographs that are clear and current. If you possess any professional certifications, IT training, or computer literacy certificates, these should also be brought along as they provide added advantage and demonstrate competence beyond the basic requirements. All documents must be verifiable, consistent with your online application entries, and free of alterations or errors. Any applicant caught presenting forged, inconsistent, or misleading documentation will face immediate disqualification and may be handed over to law enforcement for prosecution. Furthermore, ensure your names, dates, and other personal details match across all documents. Discrepancies could cause delays or disqualification during background checks. You should also make physical and digital copies of every document submitted for your own records and to present at any stage where they may be requested again. Lastly, prepare to undergo physical and medical fitness screening to verify that you meet the physical standards set by the agency. Failure to meet the medical and height requirements will also result in disqualification, even if all your papers are in order. Ensure you stay healthy, physically active, and ready to comply with the screening dates when they are announced.