Customs promises to address enlistment complaints of 397 candidates
By Uzor Odigbo
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has acknowledged the complaints from some applicants who participated in the recent recruitment exercise.
These candidates were among those screened out and subsequently not allowed to proceed to the training college despite appearing on the recruitment shortlist.
The Service says it recognises the concerns raised by affected applicants and assures the public that the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi after meeting with some of the aggrieved applicants, has called for a case-by-case reappraisal to ensure legitimate complaints are heard.
The Service however clarified that inclusion in the final shortlist does not automatically guarantee enlistment into the Service.
A statement by Customs spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada, said: “Recruitment into the NCS involves multiple stages of verification, including credential and document checks, physical and endurance assessments, medical examinations and age verification, drug screening and other mandatory requirements.
“During the screening exercise, issues relating to substance abuse such as cigarettes and alcohol exclusive, physical fitness, medical records, age and submitted documentation were identified among 397 applicants.
“Some candidates were also rejected due to identified irregularities in their selection process during the screening exercise.
“These findings underscore the Service’s commitment to upholding established recruitment standards and ensuring that only candidates who satisfy all prescribed requirements are considered for enlistment into the Service.
“The initiative is intended to ensure that legitimate concerns receive appropriate attention while preserving the integrity, fairness and credibility of the recruitment process.
Aggrieved candidates who wish to take advantage of the new window will be subjected to fresh screening. Where investigations establish criminal conduct, including certificate fraud or other offenses, the individuals involved will be referred for appropriate legal action and prosecution.
The review of complaints will not constitute a waiver of established standards or an automatic guarantee of admission into training.
The Service urges applicants and the general public to remain calm and utilise the designated channel for the submission of complaints, while assuring all concerned that the review will be guided by established procedures and the need to uphold the integrity of the Service.
The NCS, under the leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and its management members, reaffirms its commitment to a credible, transparent and accountable recruitment process.
While the Service remains open to genuine complaints from affected applicants, it will not compromise the standards required of personnel entrusted with national security, border protection, revenue collection and public safety responsibilities.
