The [Nigeria Customs Service](https://customs.gov.ng) confirmed it will re‑evaluate grievances from 397 individuals who were excluded from its latest recruitment exercise even though they appeared on the final shortlist, acting on directions from Comptroller‑General [Bashir Adewale Adeniyi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bashir_Adewale_Adeniyi) to assess each case individually.
**What prompted the review?**
- The agency identified 397 applicants with alleged irregularities during the screening stages.
- The decision to revisit the cases was taken after the Comptroller‑General met with several aggrieved candidates.
- A statement released on Monday by Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada outlined the purpose of the review.
**How does the recruitment process work?**
Applicants who reach the final shortlist must still clear multiple verification steps, including checks of academic credentials, physical fitness tests, medical examinations, age confirmation and drug screening. Being on the shortlist does not automatically secure admission to the training college.
**What irregularities were found?**
The service reported that the 397 cases involved issues such as failed drug tests, insufficient physical fitness, problematic medical records, age discrepancies and falsified documentation. Some candidates were also removed because of irregularities uncovered during the selection procedure itself.
**How can affected candidates lodge a complaint?**
The Customs Service asked anyone who believes they were unfairly disqualified to forward their details and supporting documents to helpdesk@customs.gov.ng. Submissions will be examined individually, and applicants may be subjected to a fresh screening round.
**Will the review guarantee admission?**
The agency stressed that a successful review does not automatically translate into placement at the training college; candidates must still satisfy all verification requirements.
**What are the possible consequences for proven misconduct?**
Applicants found to have engaged in criminal conduct, such as certificate fraud or other offences, will be referred to the appropriate legal authorities for prosecution.
The Customs Service appealed for calm and urged the public to use the designated email channel for any complaints, assuring that each case will be handled with due diligence.