Applicants shortlisted for paramilitary recruitment are warned against paying for mandatory drug tests already covered by the government.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has issued a strong warning to paramilitary job seekers regarding extortion attempts linked to mandatory recruitment screenings. Shortlisted candidates are being cautioned not to pay any money for the required medical evaluations.
Reports surfaced that applicants were charged N7,500 through the official testing portal despite official statements confirming the process is entirely free. The Ministry of Interior previously settled all financial requirements for the screening exercise in bulk.
The policy affects candidates applying for roles across four major national security bodies, according to information published by punchng. The directive aims to protect vulnerable citizens from fraudulent agents demanding unauthorized fees during the recruitment window.
Affected Paramilitary Agencies In Nigeria
The recruitment directive directly impacts individuals seeking employment within four specific national institutions under federal oversight. These organizations form the core of the country internal security and correctional framework.
The affected entities include the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Federal Fire Service, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Shortlisted applicants must complete their verification through proper institutional channels.
Official Warning From NDLEA Leadership
Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy for the anti-narcotics agency, released an official statement addressing the concerning financial demands. He emphasized that no applicant should give money to any individual or center.
The agency clarified that no payment is required from any candidate or personnel presenting for the Drug Integrity Test. Officials stressed that the government already made bulk payments to cover testing for all incoming intakes.
Portal Access And Testing Procedures
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board announced that its recruitment portal opened on October 28 for the first batch of 30,000 shortlisted personnel. Candidates can check their status and initiate mandatory requirements.
Board Secretary Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin urged successful candidates to log in, confirm their status, and obtain the necessary code. Applicants must visit designated NDLEA offices in their states before traveling to Abuja for appointment letters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do paramilitary recruits need to pay for drug tests?
No, candidates shortlisted for recruitment do not need to pay for the Drug Integrity Test because the Ministry of Interior has already covered all expenses.
Which agencies are affected by the recruitment warning?
The warning applies to applicants seeking positions in the Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Fire Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
How can candidates access the NDLEA testing portal?
Applicants must access the testing platform through designated links provided on their respective institutional recruitment portals between October 28 and November 13.
