Nigeria paramilitary agencies mandate drug testing for 30,000 recruits

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has announced mandatory drug testing for the first batch of 30,000 recruits in Nigeria. Candidates who have reached the oral interview stage for agencies including the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Correctional Service, and the Federal Fire Service must undergo screening.

The recruitment portal will reopen from October 28 until November 13 to allow shortlisted applicants to verify their status and obtain the necessary codes for the exercise. Testing will be conducted at designated National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) offices across various states.

Board Secretary Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin (retd.) stated that the requirement follows a Federal Government directive ensuring all prospective public servants are free from illegal drug use before receiving appointment letters. The government will bear the cost of the drug tests. Applicants are cautioned against paying intermediaries or using unofficial websites to influence the recruitment process.