The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has officially issued an important advisory to all shortlisted candidates ahead of the much-anticipated Paramilitary Computer-Based Test (CBT) 2025. The directive outlines the login procedure, verification process, and examination conduct for candidates applying to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
The CBT examination, set to begin this week, represents a critical phase in Nigeria’s paramilitary recruitment process — a stage where thousands of applicants will compete for limited slots across the nation’s key security and safety agencies.
As the test commences, the board has emphasized strict compliance with the new login and conduct guidelines to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity throughout the process.
Exam Schedule and Participation Details
According to the CDCFIB, the paramilitary CBT examination will commence daily at 9:00 a.m., beginning Wednesday through the following week. Candidates are expected to log into the examination portal 30 minutes before the scheduled start time to complete necessary verification procedures.
This directive aims to curb last-minute technical difficulties and ensure all shortlisted candidates are properly verified before the test begins. Late login, poor connectivity, or incomplete verification may result in automatic disqualification.
How to Log In Successfully: Step-by-Step Guide
The board released a simple but crucial login procedure that every candidate must follow carefully:
- Early Login (30 Minutes Prior):
Candidates must log in at least 30 minutes before the exam begins to allow the system to verify their identity and device. - Photo Verification:
A mandatory photo verification step will confirm that the person logging in matches the identity on record. Failure to complete this verification can lead to automatic exclusion. - Virtual Waiting Room:
After verification, candidates will remain in a virtual waiting room until the exam officially starts at the scheduled time. - Stable Internet Connection Required:
The exam will be conducted through an AI-proctored system, which requires a stable and uninterrupted internet connection. Switching apps, receiving calls, or minimizing the browser window during the test can trigger system alerts or result in automatic submission and disqualification. - Reconnection Policy:
In case of an internet interruption, candidates may reconnect and continue the test within the allotted exam time — ensuring that no progress is lost.
Key Warnings from the CDCFIB
The board emphasized several critical warnings that all candidates must heed:
- Unstable networks can cause disconnection, system flagging, or automatic termination of the exam session.
- Multiple device logins are not allowed — each candidate must use only one authorized device.
- Exam environment discipline is mandatory. Background noise, movement, or interference from others during the test will be flagged as malpractice.
- Mobile devices are permitted, but laptops and desktops are strongly recommended for optimal performance and stability.
- Any attempt to manipulate the system or bypass the proctoring software will result in immediate disqualification and potential blacklisting from future recruitment exercises.
AI-Proctored Monitoring System Explained
One of the most notable features of the 2025 Paramilitary CBT is the introduction of AI-driven proctoring technology — an advanced system designed to maintain the exam’s integrity and fairness.
The AI monitors facial recognition, eye movement, and browser activity throughout the test duration. This prevents cheating, impersonation, or collaboration. The CDCFIB explained that such measures are necessary to maintain transparency in the recruitment process, ensuring that only qualified and honest candidates progress.
This innovation also reflects the government’s ongoing digital transformation drive, emphasizing merit-based recruitment and technological efficiency across all public service sectors.
Eligible Agencies Under the Board
The recruitment process covers multiple paramilitary agencies, each playing a vital role in Nigeria’s security infrastructure:
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC):
Responsible for internal security, emergency management, and protection of critical national infrastructure. - Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS):
Manages border security, migration control, and passport services. - Federal Fire Service (FFS):
Provides fire prevention, rescue operations, and public safety education. - Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS):
Oversees rehabilitation, reformation, and safe custody of inmates across Nigeria.
Candidates who perform well in the CBT examination will advance to the next stages of the recruitment process, including physical verification, documentation, and final selection.
Tips for Success in the Paramilitary CBT Exam
To improve their chances of success, candidates are advised to follow these best practices:
- Test Your Device Beforehand:
Ensure your laptop or smartphone camera, microphone, and internet connection are functioning properly. - Stay in a Quiet Environment:
Take the test in a calm, distraction-free space to avoid background noise or movement detection. - Avoid Technical Violations:
Do not switch tabs, minimize the window, or open unrelated applications during the test. - Dress Appropriately:
The photo verification process captures your image; maintain a neat appearance for credibility. - Stay Calm and Focused:
Anxiety can lead to mistakes — stay composed, manage your time, and read all questions carefully. - Follow Instructions to the Letter:
Ignoring even a single procedural step can result in automatic system disqualification.
What This Means for Nigeria’s Paramilitary Recruitment Process
This 2025 CBT exercise represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital recruitment evolution. For years, paramilitary recruitment faced challenges such as overcrowded screening centers, manual verification errors, and delayed results.
By moving fully online, the CDCFIB is setting a new standard for transparency and efficiency. The AI-proctored exam minimizes human interference, curtails corruption risks, and ensures that only deserving candidates succeed purely on merit.
This step not only enhances credibility but also reflects Nigeria’s broader goal of embracing technology-driven governance.
