Nigeria Customs Service Recruitment Past Questions

Nigeria Customs Service Recruitment Past Questions

The labor market in Nigeria is undeniably competitive. With millions of graduates entering the workforce every year, securing a permanent, pensionable job with the Federal Government is akin to finding gold. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) represents one of the most coveted career paths in the nation. It is not just a job; it is a call to service, a mark of prestige, and a guarantee of financial stability.

However, the path to wearing the uniform is paved with challenges. During the last recruitment cycle, over 500,000 Nigerians applied for roughly 3,200 positions. Those odds are daunting.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams and work tirelessly to achieve them.” — Eleanor Roosevelt.

At Manny Spark, we have analyzed the recruitment trends over the last decade. We found that while many candidates are qualified academically, they fail the Aptitude Test because they are unprepared for the specific style of questions the NCS asks. This article is your first step toward changing that narrative.

About the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS): History and Mandate

To pass the interview and the exam, you must know the organization inside out.

A Historic Legacy

The history of the Nigeria Customs Service dates back to 1891, when the former British Colonial administration appointed T.A. Wall as the Director-General of Customs for the Niger Coast Protectorate. This makes the NCS one of the oldest government agencies in Nigeria, predating even the amalgamation of 1914.

Over the years, the name and structure have evolved, but the core mission remains: to protect Nigeria’s economic interests.

The Statutory Mandate

The NCS operates under the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) Cap. C45, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Their responsibilities are critical to national survival:

1. Revenue Generation: They are the second-highest revenue-generating agency in Nigeria, second only to the FIRS.

2. Anti-Smuggling Operations: Intercepting illegal arms, narcotics (like Tramadol), and contraband goods.

3. Trade Facilitation: Implementing government policies that make doing business easier for importers and exporters.

4. Security: Serving as the first line of defense at borders against cross-border crimes.

Detailed Organizational Structure and Locations

Knowing where you might work is crucial. The NCS is headquartered in Abuja but operates a decentralized structure to cover the vast borders of Nigeria.

Headquarters

Abidjan Street, Wuse Zone 3,

P.M.B. 26,

Wuse, Abuja – FCT, Nigeria.

This is the administrative hub where the Comptroller-General (CG) sits.

The Four Zonal Structures

For operational efficiency, the NCS is divided into four zones, each headed by an Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG):

• Zone A (Headquarters: Lagos): Covers all ports and borders in the South West (Apapa, Tin Can, Idiroko, Seme). This is the busiest zone.

• Zone B (Headquarters: Kaduna): Covers the North West and North Central land borders.

• Zone C (Headquarters: Port Harcourt): Covers the South-South and South East (Onne, Calabar, Owerri).

• Zone D (Headquarters: Bauchi): Covers the North East.

Commands

Beneath the zones are Area Commands, headed by Comptrollers. Major commands include:

• Apapa Area Command

• Tin Can Island Port Command

• Murtala Muhammed Airport Command

• Seme Border Command

The Recruitment Categories: Which Cadre Fits You?

The NCS recruits into three distinct cadres. Applying for the wrong one can lead to automatic disqualification.

A. Superintendent Cadre (Commissioned Officers)

This is the elite corps of the service.

• Rank on Entry: Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II).

• Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc, B.A, B.Tech) from a recognized university.

• Grade Level: 08.

• NYSC: Must possess a Discharge or Exemption Certificate.

B. Inspectorate Cadre (Mid-Level)

• Rank on Entry: Inspector of Customs (IC).

• Requirement: Higher National Diploma (HND) or National Diploma (ND) with Lower Credit.

• Grade Level: 07 (for HND) or 06 (for ND).

C. Customs Assistant Cadre (Junior Level)

• Rank on Entry: Customs Assistant II or III.

• Requirement: SSCE, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB with at least 5 credits including English and Math.

• Focus: Security duties, driving, clerical work, and health assistance.

5. Step-by-Step Application Process and Requirements

Basic Requirements for All Applicants:

1. Nationality: Must be a Nigerian by birth.

2. Age: Generally between 18 and 30 years (Medical professionals may have a higher limit).

3. Height: Men must be at least 1.7 meters tall; Women must be at least 1.64 meters.

4. Chest Measurement: Men must have a fully expanded chest of 0.87 meters.

5. Health: Must be certified physically and mentally fit by a Government Medical Officer.

6. Character: No criminal record.

Physical Disqualifications:

• Flat foot.

• Sight issues (Cross-eye, color blindness).

• Pregnant women.

• Gross malformation of teeth.

• Tattoos or body art.

• Hernia.

The Application Portal:

Applications are strictly done online at vacancy.customs.gov.ng.

Dr. Manny Tip: Never pay anyone to “help” you apply. The application is free. Payments are only for study materials like our Past Questions pack.

The Computer Based Test (CBT): What to Expect

Once shortlisted, you will be invited for a CBT exam. This is the “kill zone” where the population is reduced from 500,000 to 10,000.

Exam Body:

The exam is often conducted by JAMB or a private consultant hired by the NCS Board. This means the interface will look very similar to the JAMB UTME interface.

Exam Duration:

You typically have 45 to 60 minutes to answer 50 to 100 questions. Speed is everything.

Marking Scheme:

• Each question carries equal marks.

• There is usually no negative marking (but verify this in the exam hall instructions).

[Internal Link: Read our article on “Time Management Strategies for JAMB CBT Exams”]

Why 85% of Candidates Fail the NCS Aptitude Test

Based on feedback from our students at Manny Spark, here are the top reasons for failure:

1. Reliance on General Knowledge: Candidates assume because they know current affairs, they will pass. They fail because they don’t know Customs-specific answers (e.g., “What is the CET tariff for rice?”).

2. Lack of Past Questions: The NCS recycles questions. If you haven’t seen the 2019 or 2021 papers, you are flying blind.

3. Panic: The timer on the CBT screen induces panic, leading to mental blocks.

4. Poor Internet Skills: Some candidates struggle to use the mouse/computer efficiently.

“He who fails to plan is planning to fail.” — Winston Churchill.

The Manny Spark Solution: Your Key to Success

We have solved the problem of “Lack of Materials.” Dr. Manny has compiled the Updated Nigeria Customs Service Past Questions and Answers (2025 Edition).

What is inside this N5,000 Pack?

• 1,000+ Verified Questions: Covering 2010 to the most recent recruitment.

• Explanations: We don’t just give answers; we explain why (especially for Math and Logic).

• The “Customs Bible”: A special section dedicated to terms like Bill of Lading, Excise, Demurrage, and Prohibited Items.

• Direct Access to Dr. Manny: For career advice.

Price: N5,000

Contact: 08039822082 or info@mannyspark.com

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown for the NCS Exam

Do not read the whole dictionary. Focus on these areas:

• English Language: Synonyms, Antonyms, Interpretation of phrases, Basic Grammar.

• Mathematics: Percentages, Ratios, Simple Interest, Speed/Distance/Time, Basic Algebra.

• General Studies: Nigerian History, Civics, Constitution, ECOWAS/AU/UN.

• Current Affairs: Ministers, Governors, Capitals, Recent Government Policies.

• Customs Affairs: History of NCS, Ranks, Departments, Import/Export guidelines.

Extensive Sample Questions: General Knowledge & Current Affairs

These are real questions from past exams. Study them.

Q1. The current constitution of Nigeria was promulgated in what year?

A) 1979

B) 1993

C) 1999

D) 1960

Answer: C) 1999

Q2. The eagle on the Nigerian Coat of Arms represents?

A) Dignity

B) Strength

C) Agriculture

D) Peace

Answer: B) Strength

Q3. The first military head of state in Nigeria was?

A) General Yakubu Gowon

B) General Aguiyi Ironsi

C) General Murtala Muhammed

D) General Olusegun Obasanjo

Answer: B) General Aguiyi Ironsi

Q4. Who formed the first political party in Nigeria?

A) Nnamdi Azikiwe

B) Herbert Macaulay

C) Obafemi Awolowo

D) Ahmadu Bello

Answer: B) Herbert Macaulay (NNDP in 1923)

Q5. The central bank of Nigeria (CBN) was established in?

A) 1958

B) 1960

C) 1963

D) 1950

Answer: A) 1958

Q6. The acronym “EFCC” stands for?

A) Economic and Financial Crimes Commission

B) Economic and Financial Crime Committee

C) Economic and Financial Control Commission

D) Economic and Fiscal Crimes Commission

Answer: A) Economic and Financial Crimes Commission

Q7. Which state in Nigeria has the largest land mass?

A) Kano

B) Oyo

C) Niger

D) Kaduna

Answer: C) Niger State

Q8. The confluence of River Niger and River Benue is at?

A) Makurdi

B) Lokoja

C) Onitsha

D) Baro

Answer: B) Lokoja

Q9. Who is the current Minister of Finance (The supervising minister of Customs)?

A) Zainab Ahmed

B) Wale Edun

C) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

D) Kemi Adeosun

Answer: B) Wale Edun (Note: Ensure you check the current appointee at the time of your exam).

Q10. Nigeria became a republic in?

A) 1960

B) 1963

C) 1966

D) 1979

Answer: B) 1963

[INSERT IMAGE: Image of the Nigerian Coat of Arms]

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11. Extensive Sample Questions: Nigeria Customs Affairs (The 7 Cs)

This section separates the winners from the losers. You MUST know this.

Q11. What is the full meaning of “CEMA”?

A) Customs and Export Management Act

B) Customs and Excise Management Act

C) Central Excise Management Authority

D) Customs Enforcement Management Act

Answer: B) Customs and Excise Management Act

Q12. The system used for customs clearance in Nigeria is called?

A) ASYCUDA

B) NICIS II

C) PAAR

D) Both B and C

Answer: D) Both B and C (NICIS II is the platform, PAAR is the report).

Q13. What does “Excise Duty” mean?

A) Tax on imported goods

B) Tax on exported goods

C) Tax on goods manufactured locally

D) Tax on petroleum products only

Answer: C) Tax on goods manufactured locally

Q14. Which of the following is a contraband item in Nigeria?

A) Vehicles under 15 years old

B) Frozen poultry products

C) Rice (in some contexts)

D) Pharmaceuticals

Answer: B) Frozen poultry products (Note: Lists change, keep updated).

Q15. The highest rank in the Nigeria Customs Service is?

A) Deputy Comptroller-General

B) Comptroller-General

C) Assistant Comptroller-General

D) Chief Superintendent

Answer: B) Comptroller-General

Q16. What color is the Customs flag/ensign?

A) Green and White

B) Blue and Yellow

C) Green with the Union Jack (Historical) / Now Green with Service Logo

D) Red and Black

Answer: A) Green (Predominantly, with the logo)

Q17. Who appoints the Comptroller-General of Customs?

A) The Senate

B) The Minister of Finance

C) The President of Nigeria

D) The Customs Board

Answer: C) The President of Nigeria

Q18. The “Single Window” system is aimed at?

A) Reducing corruption

B) Facilitating trade by unifying government agencies

C) Increasing taxes

D) Border patrol

Answer: B) Facilitating trade by unifying government agencies

Q19. What is the meaning of “Demurrage”?

A) A fee paid for clearing goods early

B) A charge payable to the owner of a chartered ship on failure to load or discharge the ship within the time agreed

C) A bribe

D) A custom duty

Answer: B

Q20. The Customs Staff College is located in?

A) Kano

B) Lagos

C) Gwagwalada, Abuja

D) Jos

Answer: C) Gwagwalada, Abuja

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12. Extensive Sample Questions: English Language & Verbal Reasoning

Q21. Choose the correct option:

Neither of the boys ______ present.

A) are

B) were

C) is

D) have been

Answer: C) is (Neither is singular).

Q22. Complete the proverb: “A stitch in time saves ______.”

A) nine

B) time

C) money

D) stress

Answer: A) nine

Q23. Choose the synonym for “Candid”.

A) Secretive

B) Frank

C) Shy

D) Rude

Answer: B) Frank

Q24. Choose the antonym for “Arrogant”.

A) Proud

B) Humble

C) Stupid

D) Rich

Answer: B) Humble

Q25. Spot the error:

“The police is coming to arrest the thief.”

A) police

B) is

C) coming

D) thief

Answer: B) is (Police is a collective noun usually treated as plural in this context: “The police are coming”).

Q26. The man ______ the car is my uncle.

A) driving

B) driven

C) drove

D) drives

Answer: A) driving

Q27. “To let the cat out of the bag” means?

A) To release a pet

B) To reveal a secret

C) To make a mistake

D) To be angry

Answer: B) To reveal a secret

Q28. Identify the verb in the sentence: “The officer ran quickly.”

A) The

B) Officer

C) Ran

D) Quickly

Answer: C) Ran

Q29. Plural of “Crisis”:

A) Crisiss

B) Crises

C) Crisises

D) Crices

Answer: B) Crises

Q30. “He is an authority ______ Customs laws.”

A) in

B) on

C) at

D) with

Answer: B) on

Extensive Sample Questions: Mathematics & Quantitative Reasoning

Q31. Solve for x: $3x – 5 = 10$.

A) 3

B) 4

C) 5

D) 6

Answer: C) 5

3x = 15 \rightarrow x = 5

Q32. Convert 0.75 to a percentage.

A) 7.5%

B) 75%

C) 0.75%

D) 750%

Answer: B) 75%

Q33. A man buys a shirt for N5,000 and sells it for N6,000. What is his percentage profit?

A) 10%

B) 15%

C) 20%

D) 25%

Answer: C) 20%

Q34. If 5 men can do a job in 4 days, how many days will it take 2 men?

A) 8 days

B) 10 days

C) 5 days

D) 12 days

Answer: B) 10 days

Inverse variation: $5 \times 4 = 20$ man-days. $20 / 2 = 10$ days.

Q35. What is the perimeter of a rectangle with length 10cm and width 5cm?

A) 15cm

B) 30cm

C) 50cm

D) 25cm

Answer: B) 30cm

2(L+W) \rightarrow 2(10+5) = 30

Q36. The sum of angles in a triangle is?

A) 90 degrees

B) 180 degrees

C) 270 degrees

D) 360 degrees

Answer: B) 180 degrees

Q37. What is the square root of 144?

A) 10

B) 11

C) 12

D) 14

Answer: C) 12

Q38. A car travels at 80km/h. How far does it go in 3 hours?

A) 160km

B) 200km

C) 240km

D) 300km

Answer: C) 240km

Q39. Evaluate: $5 + 3 \times 2$.

A) 16

B) 11

C) 10

D) 13

Answer: B) 11

(BODMAS: Multiply first. $3 \times 2 = 6. 5 + 6 = 11$)

Q40. If $A = \{1, 2, 3\}$ and $B = \{3, 4, 5\}$, what is $A \cap B$?

A) {1, 2}

B) {3}

C) {4, 5}

D) {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

Answer: B) {3}

14. Extensive Sample Questions: Logic and Critical Thinking

These questions test your IQ.

Q41. Light is to Eye as Sound is to ______?

A) Mouth

B) Ear

C) Nose

D) Hand

Answer: B) Ear

Q42. Which word does not belong?

A) Car

B) Bus

C) Truck

D) Ship

Answer: D) Ship (Others are land vehicles).

Q43. 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, __?

A) 48

B) 60

C) 64

D) 50

Answer: C) 64 (Doubling sequence).

The Nigeria Customs Salary Structure (CONPASS)

The NCS pays well. They operate on the Consolidated Para-Military Salary Structure (CONPASS). In addition to the basic salary, officers receive various allowances:

• Transport Allowance

• Meal Subsidy

• Utility Allowance

• Hazard Allowance

• Uniform Maintenance Allowance

Table: Estimated Annual Salary Packages (Gross)

Rank	Qualification	Estimated Annual Salary (N)
Customs Assistant III	SSCE	N350,000 – N400,000
Customs Assistant I	Diploma (OND)	N450,000 – N500,000
Inspector of Customs	HND	N800,000 – N950,000
Assistant Superintendent II	B.Sc	N1,200,000 – N1,400,000
Deputy Superintendent	Promotion	N1,800,000+

Note: The salary is subject to deductions (Pension, Tax) and increases (Minimum wage adjustments).

Understanding NCS Ranks and Insignia

Knowing the ranks is useful for the “Service Knowledge” section of the exam.

Commissioned Officers (Superintendent Cadre):

1. Comptroller-General (CG): The highest rank. Insignia: Coat of Arms + 2 Stars + Crossed Sword & Baton.

2. Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG): Coat of Arms + 1 Star + Crossed Sword & Baton.

3. Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG): Coat of Arms + Crossed Sword & Baton.

4. Comptroller: Coat of Arms + 1 Star.

5. Deputy Comptroller (DC): Coat of Arms.

6. Assistant Comptroller (AC): Major equivalent.

7. Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC): Eagle + 1 Star.

8. Superintendent of Customs (SC): Eagle.

9. Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC): 3 Stars.

10. Assistant Superintendent of Customs I (ASC I): 2 Stars.

11. Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II): 1 Star.

How to Purchase the Complete Past Questions Pack (N5,000)

This article has given you about 50 questions. The actual exam requires you to practice hundreds of questions to build speed and accuracy.

Dr. Manny has prepared the “Golden Pack”.

Why Buy This Pack?

• Completeness: It contains General Studies, Math, English, and Customs Affairs.

• Format: It is a PDF file, compatible with all phones and laptops.

• Updates: It includes questions from the 2024 screening.

Purchase Instructions:

1. Price: N5,000 (Five Thousand Naira).

2. Payment: Request bank details by contacting Dr. Manny.

3. Verification: Send your payment proof to the WhatsApp number below.

4. Delivery: The file is sent via WhatsApp or Email immediately.

Contact Dr. Manny at Manny Spark:

• WhatsApp: 08039822082

• Email: info@mannyspark.com

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

Dr. Manny’s Exclusive Study Tips for High Scores

As a brand dedicated to your success, Manny Spark offers these free tips:

1. Simulate the Exam: Do not just read the questions; time yourself. Give yourself 40 seconds per question.

2. Improve Your Computer Literacy: If you are not fast with a mouse, go to a cyber café and practice. The NCS exam doesn’t care if you are smart but slow.

3. Focus on Current Affairs: Read the news. Know who the Service Chiefs are. Know the recent policies on borders.

4. Dress Code for Exam: Dress smartly (White Top and Shorts/Trousers is usually required for screening, but for the CBT, formal or smart casual is safe).

5. Arrive Early: Biometric accreditation takes time.

What Happens After the Exam? (Interview & Training)

If you score high (usually 70% and above), you move to the next stage.

The Physical Screening:

They will measure your height and chest. Any discrepancy with your application data leads to disqualification.

The Interview:

A panel of senior officers will quiz you. They will ask: “Why do you want to join the Customs?”

Hint: Do not say “to make money.” Say “to serve my country and protect the economy.”

Training:

Successful candidates undergo 6 months of rigorous paramilitary training at the Customs Training College in Ikeja (Lagos) or Kano.

Key Takeaways

• Preparation is Non-Negotiable: The competition is too high to “wing it.”

• The Exam is Broad: It covers Math, English, General Knowledge, and Technical Customs questions.

• Manny Spark is Your Partner: We have the resources you need.

• Action Required: You need the full Past Questions pack to maximize your chances.

Do not let N5,000 be the reason you lose a job worth millions.