1.6 million applicants vie for 30,000 federal government jobs

More than 1.6 million applications have been received for recruitment into the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services (CDCFIS).

Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (rtd), the Board Secretary of CDCFIS, announced the figures in Uyo during the ongoing recruitment exercise. He said that 60,000 candidates have been shortlisted and that about 30,000 positions are expected to be filled.

Jibril noted that the physical screening, which began on Monday, is being carried out simultaneously at 14 designated centers across Nigeria to keep the process close to applicants.

He explained that uploaded documents will be verified and that applicants will undergo a physical examination to assess their medical and physical fitness. The screening and document verification apply to those who took the computer‑based test in November 2025.

Jibril stressed that the recruitment will be competence‑ and merit‑based, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals join the service.

He cautioned against any form of malpractice and reminded applicants that the exercise is free of charge.

His words were: “I am here in Uyo to witness the continuation of the exercise for the recruitment into the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Service. About 60,000 out of over 1.6 million applicants have been shortlisted for the physical screening exercise, and not less than 30,000 will be recruited into the services.”

Jibril added that the physical screening includes checks of applicants’ height, eyesight and leg condition to ensure there are no deformities in the paramilitary services.