Joining the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) is a smart move if you're looking for a stable, respectable, and impactful career in Nigeria’s paramilitary sector. But how do you apply and succeed through all the stages—from recruitment to training?
This official 2025 guide gives you everything you need to know about:
How to apply online
Requirements by qualification (SSCE, OND, NCE, HND, BSc)
What to expect at the screening
How to pass the training and final selection
Let’s break it down step-by-step.
The NCoS accepts applications from:
SSCE/WAEC/NECO/GCE holders
OND/NCE holders
HND/BSc degree holders
Every applicant enters based on their academic qualification, and each level has its own rank and salary scale.
Before applying, make sure you meet these basic conditions:
Nigerian citizenship by birth
Age: 18 to 30 years
Height:
Men: Minimum 1.65m
Women: Minimum 1.60m
Chest Measurement (men only): Minimum 0.87m
Physically and mentally fit
Good character; no criminal record
Valid credentials (SSCE, OND, NCE, HND, or BSc)
Valid national ID or NIN
Qualification | Recruitment Cadre | Rank on Entry |
---|---|---|
BSc / HND | Superintendent Cadre | Assistant Superintendent of Corrections II (ASC II) |
OND / NCE | Inspectorate Cadre | Assistant Inspector of Corrections (AIC) |
SSCE / NECO / WAEC | Assistant Cadre | Correctional Assistant II (CA II) |
This portal is used for all paramilitary recruitments under the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).
Click on “Apply”
Choose your preferred agency as Nigerian Correctional Service
Fill out your personal details, contact info, academic background, and upload required documents (passport photo, certificates, ID, etc.)
Depending on your qualification, select the appropriate cadre:
Superintendent Cadre – for BSc/HND
Inspectorate Cadre – for OND/NCE
Assistant Cadre – for SSCE holders
Submit your application
Print the confirmation slip
Keep your application ID safe—you’ll need it for screening and exam
Here’s what to expect:
You’ll receive an SMS or email if you’re shortlisted for screening.
Attend your screening with all original documents. Screening includes:
Height and chest measurement
Fitness test
Document verification
This exam tests:
English Language
General Knowledge
Basic Maths & Logic
Only successful CBT candidates go through full medical testing at designated hospitals.
Based on total performance, merit, and available slots.
Those selected will go through military-style training in approved correctional training schools.
Firearms handling
Inmate control techniques
Physical drills
Rehabilitation procedures
Basic law enforcement knowledge
Training lasts 4 to 6 months, depending on cadre and training batch.
Stay Fit: Start doing light workouts—screening and training are physically demanding.
Study CBT Questions: Use past questions to prepare ahead.
Follow Instructions: Pay attention to guidelines—many fail for ignoring simple details.
Gather Your Documents Early: Don’t wait until screening day.
Avoid Scammers: Application is FREE. Don’t pay anyone for slots or shortlisting.
Printed application slip
National ID card / NIN slip
Original and photocopies of credentials
Certificate of origin (LGA)
Birth certificate or age declaration
Two recent passport photos
Medical fitness report (if specified)
Q1: Can I apply with only WAEC or NECO?
Yes. You’ll enter as Correctional Assistant II (CA II) under the Assistant Cadre.
Q2: Is the NCoS recruitment portal the same for all services?
Yes. Visit https://cdcfib.career
Q3: Is the recruitment free?
Completely free. Do not pay anyone or share your login details.
Q4: Will there be a written exam?
Yes. A computer-based test (CBT) is part of the screening process.
Q5: What should I wear to screening?
Neat, simple outfit. No flashy dressing. Avoid slippers or tight jeans.
Applying for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in 2025 is easy when you follow the right process. With a valid qualification, discipline, and preparation, you can go from applicant to officer in just a few months.
From application to training, this guide has shown you the exact steps to take—no shortcuts, no guesswork.