Nigeria’s foreign affairs ministry warns against fake online recruitment

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong warning to Nigerians about a fraudulent recruitment exercise currently making the rounds online and on social media. In an official statement signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Ministry categorically disassociated itself from the fake job advertisements, which falsely claim to offer employment opportunities within the Ministry and even bear the forged signature of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“The Ministry unequivocally disassociates itself from this misleading and malicious advertisement and urges the general public to disregard such announcements and refrain from engaging with individuals or entities promoting these fraudulent schemes,” the statement read.

The Ministry emphasized that all legitimate recruitment into the Nigerian Foreign Service is handled exclusively by the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), not directly by the Ministry. The FCSC is the only authorized body to conduct hiring for federal ministries and agencies. The Ministry further stressed that it does not request or accept payments for job applications or appointments, warning the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to scams.

The FCSC recruitment process is transparent and merit-based. All announcements are made through official government channels. Applications are only accepted via the official recruitment portal: recruitment.fedcivilservice.gov.ng. Applicants are required to submit only one application and upload necessary documents, including:

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Degree, HND, NCE, or equivalent certificates

WAEC/NECO/NABTEB certificate

NYSC discharge or exemption certificate

Birth certificate or declaration of age

Local government identification

Recent passport photograph

The FCSC’s current recruitment drive, which began on January 27, 2025, was extended to March 17, 2025, due to high applicant traffic and technical challenges on the portal. The Commission assured the public that these issues are being addressed to ensure a smooth application process. The recruitment is open to all eligible Nigerians, including those with physical challenges.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and integrity in all its processes, urging Nigerians to rely only on official communication channels for information about job opportunities. Any official announcement regarding recruitment into the Foreign Service will be made through authorized government platforms in partnership with the FCSC.

Nigerians are advised to disregard unsolicited job offers, never pay anyone for job applications, and report suspicious activity to the authorities. For genuine updates on vacancies and application procedures, always refer to the FCSC’s official portal and trusted news outlets.