Introduction

Every year, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) opens its doors to new recruits who are eager to serve the nation, protect its borders, and build stable careers in the paramilitary sector. For students, graduates, and job seekers across the country, the NIS recruitment exercise represents not just an employment opportunity but also a chance to gain prestige, job security, and access to one of the most respected uniformed services in Nigeria.

As applications for the 2025/2026 recruitment cycle closed earlier in the year, the next big question on every applicant’s mind is:

“Has Nigeria Immigration Service shortlisted candidates for 2025/2026 recruitment?”

This article provides a comprehensive update, explores what the shortlist means, explains the screening process, and guides candidates on how to stay updated and avoid scams.

Has Nigeria Immigration Released the Shortlist Yet?

As of September 2025, the Nigeria Immigration Service has not yet released the official list of shortlisted candidates for the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly with further instructions. Please monitor your email and text messages over the coming weeks for notifications. We also encourage you to regularly check this portal for important updates.

The NIS, in collaboration with the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), is still in the process of reviewing applications and conducting background verifications. Shortlisting usually happens in phases:

1. Application Review Phase – Completed after the online portal closes.

2. Preliminary Shortlist Phase – Names of qualified candidates are released.

3. Screening/Examination Phase – Shortlisted candidates are invited for CBT exams.

4. Final Shortlist Phase – Successful candidates proceed to physical training and documentation.

So, while applications have been received, no official shortlist is available yet.

What Does Shortlisting Mean?

To avoid confusion, let’s break down what shortlisting in NIS recruitment actually means:

1. Shortlisting is not the same as final selection.
   It only indicates that your application passed the first stage of review.

2. It qualifies you for the next stage.
   This may include Computer-Based Testing (CBT), physical fitness checks, and documentation.

3. Final employment depends on multiple factors.
   These include passing medical tests, meeting physical standards, and completing training successfully.

In short, being shortlisted is an important milestone, but not the end of the recruitment process.

When Will the 2025/2026 Shortlist Be Released?

Based on past recruitment timelines, here’s a realistic expectation:

1. Application Period: June – July 2025.

2. Preliminary Shortlist Release: Between October and December 2025.

3. Screening Exercises: Early 2026.

4. Final Selection & Training: Mid-2026.

This means that candidates should expect the shortlist toward the end of 2025 or early 2026.

How to Check the NIS Shortlist

When the list is eventually released, here are the official and safe steps to check if you’ve been shortlisted:

1. Visit the official NIS website:
   www.immigration.gov.ng

2. Check the CDCFIB recruitment portal:
   www.cdcfib.career or recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng

3. Login with your application details:

   • Application ID

   • Email and password used during registration

4. Download the shortlist in PDF format.

5. Search for your name or application number.

6. Check your email and SMS notifications.
   The NIS often sends direct messages to shortlisted candidates with screening instructions.

Screening Stages After Shortlisting

Candidates who find their names on the shortlist should prepare for the next stages, which typically include:

1. Computer-Based Test (CBT)

• Conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

• Tests candidates on English, General Knowledge, Current Affairs, and Numerical Reasoning.

2. Physical Screening

• Height and chest measurements.

• Verification of birth certificates, academic credentials, and identification documents.

3. Medical Examination

• Eye test, blood pressure, general health check.

4. Final Interview & Documentation

• Candidates who scale through are invited for an oral interview.

• Submission of verified credentials.

5. Training

• Selected candidates undergo paramilitary training at designated camps.

Eligibility Criteria Recap

To avoid disqualification at the shortlist stage, applicants must meet the basic criteria:

1. Nigerian citizen by birth.

2. Age: 18–30 years (some positions extend to 35).

3. Height: 1.65m (male), 1.60m (female).

4. Chest measurement (male): 0.87m minimum.

5. Educational qualifications: SSCE, ND, HND, or B.Sc depending on the role.

6. Medical fitness confirmed by a government hospital.

Failure to meet any of these may result in exclusion from the shortlist.

Why the Shortlist Is Delayed

Some applicants may be worried about the delay in release. Here are reasons why it usually takes time:

1. High Number of Applications – Often, millions apply for a few thousand slots.

2. Verification Process – The board must screen out fake documents.

3. Security Clearance – NIS is a sensitive agency; applicants must be vetted.

4. Logistics – Printing, uploading, and publishing lists require careful coordination.

Patience is therefore crucial.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Nigeria Immigration Shortlist (2025/2026)

1. Visit the Official Recruitment Portal

 Open your browser and go to:

https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng

This is the official CDCFIB portal used for Immigration, Civil Defence, Fire, and Correctional Services recruitments.

2. Click on Check Shortlist

On the homepage, look for the section labeled:

• “Applicant Login”

• or “Check Shortlist Status”

3. Enter Your Login Details

You’ll be redirected to a login page. Enter:

1. Application ID / Reference Number

2. Email Address (used during registration)

3. Password

4. Check Your Shortlist Status

After logging in, you’ll see one of the following messages:

✅ Congratulations! You have been shortlisted for the next stage.

❌ Sorry, you were not shortlisted at this time.

5. Download the Shortlist PDF

• Click on “Download PDF” to get the full list of shortlisted candidates.

• Use CTRL + F (on Windows) or CMD + F (on Mac) to quickly search for your name or application number.

6. Check Your Email & SMS

NIS usually sends notifications to shortlisted candidates. The message will include:

1. Screening venue

2. Date and time

3. Required documents (e.g., ID card, certificates, passport photo)

7. Print Your Invitation Letter

Before the screening date, print your invitation slip from the portal. You must bring this along with your documents.

Quick Checklist Before Screening

Valid ID card (NIN, Voter’s Card, or Passport)
 Birth Certificate or Age Declaration
 Educational Certificates (SSCE, ND, HND, B.Sc)
Two recent passport photographs
 Printed Invitation Slip

Final Note

 Beware of fake websites and scammers. The only recognized portals are:

• www.immigration.gov.ng

• www.recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng

Checking the shortlist is 100% free. Never pay anyone to secure a slot.

Common Mistakes Applicants Make

Many candidates disqualify themselves unknowingly. Here are common mistakes:

1. Submitting fake or altered certificates.

2. Entering wrong details on the application portal.

3. Not meeting the age or height requirements.

4. Using multiple applications, which leads to automatic disqualification.

How to Prepare While Waiting

Instead of just waiting anxiously, candidates can use this time wisely:

1. Study past NIS aptitude test questions.

2. Improve physical fitness. Jogging, push-ups, and stamina training are useful.

3. Gather required documents. Ensure your birth certificate, ID card, and academic results are ready.

4. Stay informed. Follow official NIS and CDCFIB channels.

Warning: Beware of Scams

The Nigeria Immigration Service has repeatedly warned applicants against fraudulent individuals and websites. Some scams to watch out for include:

1. Fake calls asking for payment to “secure your slot.”

2. Counterfeit websites mimicking official portals.

3. Emails promising fast-track shortlisting.

 Remember: NIS does not demand payment for shortlisting or recruitment.

Always confirm information from:

• www.immigration.gov.ng

• recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Has NIS released the 2025/2026 shortlist?
Not yet. It is expected late 2025 or early 2026.

2. Where can I check the shortlist?
On official NIS and CDCFIB portals.

3. Will I get an SMS if shortlisted?
Yes, shortlisted candidates are usually notified via email and SMS.

4. Can someone influence the shortlist for me?
No. Recruitment is merit-based. Be wary of fraudsters.

5. What happens after shortlisting?
Candidates proceed to CBT, physical screening, and medicals before final selection.

Conclusion

The Nigeria Immigration Service 2025/2026 recruitment shortlist has not been released yet, but applicants should remain calm, stay informed, and prepare for upcoming screening exercises.

The shortlist is only the first step in a rigorous process that ensures only qualified and capable candidates are admitted. While waiting, use the opportunity to study, exercise, and prepare all necessary documents.

Above all, avoid falling victim to scams and only rely on official NIS communication channels. If you applied correctly and meet the requirements, your chances remain valid.

Stay patient, stay prepared, and stay alert — your journey to becoming an Immigration Officer may soon begin