Nigerian Customs Service Salary Structure, Ranks, and Recruitment Process

Joining the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) opens the door to a rewarding career in one of Nigeria’s esteemed para-military organizations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history, responsibilities, ranks, and salary structure of the NCS, shedding light on the exciting opportunities it offers to prospective candidates.

History and Responsibilities of the Nigerian Customs Service

The NCS, established in 1891 during the British colonial administration, has evolved to become a vital force in combating smuggling and ensuring adherence to importation regulations. Under the Ministry of Finance, the NCS plays a crucial role in revenue generation for the government, oversees international trade, and secures the nation’s borders. Key responsibilities include revenue collection, promotion of international exchange, border security, prevention of smuggling, licensing of customs agents, formulation of fiscal policies, and collaboration with other border and port workers.

Ranks and Departments

The NCS is organized into six departments, each overseen by a Deputy Comptroller General, with the entire organization headed by the Comptroller General. The departments include Excise and Industrial Incentives, Technical Services, Enforcement and Drugs, Investigation and Inspection, Finance, Administration, Tariff and Trade, and Economic Relating Research and Planning.

The ranks within the NCS range from Customs Assistant to Comptroller General, with each rank playing a distinct role in the organization’s hierarchy.

• Customs Assistant
• Assistant Inspector of Customs
• Inspector of Customs
• Assistant Superintendent of Customs II
• Assistant Superintendent of Customs I
• Deputy Superintendent Customs Officer
• Chief Superintendent Customs Officer
• Assistant Comptroller
• Deputy Comptroller
• Comptroller
• Assistant Comptroller-Generals
• Deputy Comptroller-Generals
• Comptroller-General

Salary Structure of the Nigerian Customs Service

The NCS salary structure is based on ranks and years of service. While salaries are subject to change and may include various allowances, as of recent data:

• Comptroller General: ₦2,870,000 – ₦2,500,000
• Deputy Comptroller General: ₦2,570,000 – ₦2,480,000
• Assistant Comptroller General: ₦2,470,000 – ₦2,280,000
• Comptrollers: ₦2,070,000 – ₦1,880,000
• Deputy Comptrollers: ₦1,770,000 – ₦1,580,000
• Assistant Comptrollers: ₦1,570,000 – ₦1,480,000
• Chief Superintendent Customs Officer: ₦1,370,000 – ₦1,280,000
• Deputy Superintendent Customs Officer: ₦1,270,000 – ₦1,180,000
• Assistant Superintendent of Customs I & II: ₦1,070,000 – ₦980,000
• Inspector of Customs: ₦970,000 – ₦880,000
• Assistant Inspector of Customs: ₦870,000 – ₦780,000
• Customs Assistant: ₦770,000 – ₦680,000

Allowances

In addition to the base salary, NCS officers enjoy various allowances, including but not limited to:

• General Services allowance
• Hazard allowance
• Utility allowance
• Detective allowance
• Uniform maintenance allowance
• Furniture allowance
• House maintenance allowance
• Personal Servant
• Torchlight allowance
• Hardiness allowance
• Plain-Cloth allowance

Recruitment Requirements

Joining the NCS is a competitive process. To be eligible, candidates must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen by birth or other means
• Possess a state of origin certificate duly signed by the Local Government chairman or secretary
• Meet height and chest measurement requirements
• Be physically and mentally fit, certified by a Government hospital
• Be free of any physical or mental disabilities

Conclusion

A career with the Nigerian Customs Service offers not only a competitive salary but also the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s economic development and security. Stay informed, prepare thoroughly, and unlock the doors to a fulfilling career in the NCS.