Correctional Service Recruitment 2025 | Form, Salary Structure

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), under the supervision of the Ministry of Interior and the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), is pleased to announce the commencement of its 2025/2026 nationwide recruitment exercise. This is a significant opportunity for qualified, patriotic Nigerians who wish to serve the country in a uniformed, paramilitary capacity, ensuring public safety, reformation of inmates, and upholding justice through correctional service.

This recruitment is part of a broader federal government directive to strengthen national security and enhance manpower within key paramilitary institutions. The process is free of charge, transparent, and entirely based on merit.

Available Categories and Career Cadres

The Nigerian Correctional Service recruitment exercise offers positions across multiple categories tailored to different educational and professional backgrounds. Below are the major career options available:

Superintendent Cadre

This category targets professionals and degree holders with specialized qualifications. Positions include:

• Superintendent of Corrections (Medical) CONHESS 02: For candidates with MBBS, MBChB or equivalent qualifications recognized by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.

• Superintendent of Corrections (Pharmacy, Radiography, Optometry, Dentistry, etc.): Candidates must possess relevant university degrees and valid licenses to practice.

These roles involve administrative, healthcare, and command responsibilities in correctional facilities nationwide.

Inspectorate Cadre

Mid-level technical and administrative positions fall within this category. Applicants are expected to possess either:

• National Diploma (ND)

• NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education)

• Registered Nursing Certificates from accredited institutions.

The Inspectorate Cadre includes roles such as health assistants, clerical supervisors, ICT support officers, and facility inspectors.

Assistant Cadre

This cadre offers entry-level roles for individuals with minimum secondary school education or equivalent vocational skills. Key roles include:

• Correctional Assistant I & II (General Duties): Open to those with SSCE/WAEC/NECO/GCE with at least 4 or 5 credits including English and Mathematics.

• Correctional Assistant (Artisan, Mechanics, Drivers, Cooks, Plumbers, etc.): Applicants must hold Trade Test Certificates (Grade II or III), vocational qualifications, or relevant experience in specified trades.

This category plays a crucial role in daily facility operations, inmate management, and support functions.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure fairness and professionalism, the Nigerian Correctional Service has set specific criteria all applicants must meet:

• Citizenship: Only Nigerian citizens by birth are eligible.

• Age Limit: Candidates must be between 18 and 35 years at the time of application.

• Educational Qualifications: All certificates must be obtained from recognized institutions. For SSCE/NECO, at least four credits including English and Mathematics are required.

• Physical Requirements:

  • Men must be at least 1.65 meters tall and have a chest measurement not less than 0.87 meters.

  • Women must be at least 1.60 meters tall.

• Medical Fitness: A recent medical certificate of fitness from a recognized government hospital is mandatory.

• Character and Conduct: Applicants must be of good character, with no record of criminal convictions or involvement in cults or secret societies.

• Computer Literacy: Not mandatory but a strong advantage, especially for administrative and ICT-related roles.

Applicants must not belong to any political or secret organizations and must not have tattoos, bodily inscriptions, or visible piercings (except for females with ear piercings).

Application Procedure

To apply for the Nigerian Correctional Service recruitment, follow the steps outlined below:

• Visit the official recruitment portal:

• Create an account with a valid email address and phone number.

• Choose “Nigerian Correctional Service” as your preferred agency.

• Select your desired cadre, based on your educational qualification and experience.

• Fill out the application form accurately, ensuring all personal and academic details are correct.

• Upload all required documents, including:

  • Birth certificate or age declaration

  • Local government certificate of origin

  • Medical fitness certificate

  • Passport photograph (white background)

  • Educational certificates and professional licenses (where applicable)

• Submit your application and print the acknowledgment slip.

• Watch for notifications via SMS or email regarding screening and further instructions.

Note: Each applicant is allowed to apply only once. Multiple applications or attempts to apply to more than one paramilitary agency will lead to automatic disqualification.

Screening and Selection Process

The recruitment process consists of several stages designed to assess candidates’ qualifications, physical fitness, and suitability for correctional service roles. These stages include:

• Document Verification: Submitted credentials will be reviewed to ensure authenticity.

• Physical Screening: Candidates will undergo physical measurements and medical evaluations.

• Aptitude Tests: Written tests assessing general knowledge, reasoning ability, and job-specific competencies.

• Oral Interviews: Interaction with recruitment boards to assess communication skills and discipline.

• Final Shortlisting: Candidates who pass all phases will be issued appointment letters and posted for training at designated correctional training institutions.

Only successful candidates will proceed to each subsequent stage, and all updates will be communicated officially through the portal and SMS/email.

Salary Structure and Allowances

The Nigerian Correctional Service operates under the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for medical professionals.

Here is a summary of expected salaries by rank:

Additional Allowances include:

• Housing and uniform allowances

• Hazard and risk allowances (for certain roles)

• Pension contributions

• In-service training and promotion opportunities

Recruitment Timeline

The recruitment portal will officially open for applications on July 14, 2025. This follows a postponement from the earlier scheduled date of June 26, 2025, to ensure adequate technical preparedness and avoid server overload.

The application period is expected to last for 3–4 weeks, but candidates are advised to apply early and not wait until the deadline.

Shortlisting and screening will begin shortly after the application window closes.

Avoid Scams and Fake Portals

The Nigerian Correctional Service and CDCFIB do not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants are strongly warned:

• Do not pay money to any individuals or groups promising job placement.

• Do not use unauthorized websites or agents.

• Only trust official communications from:

  • www.cdcfib.gov.ng

  • www.corrections.gov.ng

Report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities immediately.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Prepare your documents ahead of time – scan all credentials clearly in PDF or JPEG format.

• Use a professional email address – avoid nicknames and ensure email/SMS contact is active.

• Apply early to avoid server congestion or last-minute rush.

• Stay updated by regularly checking the official portal for announcements.

• Maintain integrity throughout the process – the selection process is merit-based.

Final Words

Serving in the Nigerian Correctional Service is not just a job—it is a noble calling to uphold justice, reform lives, and protect society. If you have the dedication, courage, and integrity to serve your country, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

We encourage all eligible Nigerians to apply and share this opportunity with qualified family and friends. For the latest information, always rely on official government channels.