Nigeria Customs Service Reschedules Superintendent Cadre Pre-Test After Portal Issues

On September 22, 2025, thousands of Nigerian youths who applied for the Superintendent Cadre positions attempted to log into the online pre-test system. However, many encountered repeated error messages, including “500 Internal Server Error” and “Gateway Time-Out”. Some candidates waited for hours in overcrowded cybercafés but were still unable to access the test. These issues sparked frustration across social media, where applicants questioned the preparedness of the technical team. One user lamented: “Most candidates could not access the site for two to three hours, yet it still did not open. Cyber cafés were filled beyond capacity.” Another asked, “Who are your developers? Are they not aware of load balancing?” In response, the NCS acknowledged that the failure was due to heavy web traffic and assured applicants that technical teams were already working to stabilize the system.

New Schedule for Superintendent Cadre Applicants

According to the latest announcement, all affected candidates have now been regrouped into four batches:

Batch A
Batch B
Batch C
Batch D

Applicants are required to check their assigned Batch, Date, and Time using their National Identification Number (NIN). This can be done through the official Customs recruitment portal: https://updates.customs.gov.ng The Service emphasized that strict compliance with the new schedule is mandatory. Failure to appear at the allocated batch and time may lead to disqualification.

Important Clarifications for Applicants

The Pre-Test Link remains the same as the one previously sent to candidates via email.
The test is designed to help candidates familiarise themselves with the online system and aid proper planning — it will not determine final recruitment outcomes.
Only Superintendent Cadre candidates should log in at this stage.
Applicants in the Inspectorate and Assistant Cadres are advised to wait for separate instructions.
Email remains the only official communication channel between NCS and applicants.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Batch and Test Schedule

Visit the official NCS update portal at updates.customs.gov.ng.
Enter your NIN (National Identification Number) in the login field.
Check your assigned Batch, Date, and Time.
Follow the schedule strictly to avoid disqualification.

Why This Pre-Test Matters

The NCS clarified that the pre-test is not an elimination stage but rather a practice assessment. It is designed to help candidates get familiar with the online testing platform ahead of the main recruitment examinations. This also helps NCS ensure smooth operations during the actual recruitment stages. Given the large number of applicants, this measure will improve planning, reduce technical failures, and ensure fairness during the recruitment process.

Applicants’ Reactions

Many Nigerian youths continue to show great interest in securing federal government jobs, with the Customs Service being one of the most sought-after agencies. However, the technical difficulties raised concerns about transparency and fairness. While some candidates expressed frustration, others welcomed the decision to reschedule, saying it gives everyone a fair chance to participate without being disadvantaged by technical glitches.

Key Takeaways from the NCS Recruitment Update

Recruitment Cadre: Superintendent Cadre
Exercise Type: Online Pre-Test (not final recruitment)
New Grouping: Batches A, B, C, and D
Login Requirement: NIN (National Identification Number)
Portal: updates.customs.gov.ng
Deadline: Candidates must strictly adhere to their batch schedules.
Other Cadres: Inspectorate and Assistant Cadres will receive separate updates later.

How To Write Your Inspectorate Cadre And Customs Assistant Pre-test Using Your Desktops or Mobile Phones

step-by-step guide on how to write your Inspectorate Cadre and Customs Assistant Pre-Test using amobile phone/desktop.

Step 1:

Turn your browser in to desktop if you are using phone, Go to the official Pre-Test portal link (the same one shown on your screen — where it says “Pre-Test Link (For Inspectorate Cadre and Custom Assistants)”).

Tap the blue “Pre-Test Link.”

Step 2:

On the login page, enter your registered email address and password (the same ones you used during registration).

Then tap “Login.”

Step 3:

Once logged in, you’ll see the Pre-Test Dashboard.

Read the instructions carefully — it will tell you how many questions you’ll answer and the time allowed.

Step 4:

Tap “Start Test” to begin.

Your test will open directly in your browser.

Questions will appear one after another.

Choose your answers carefully before clicking Next or Submit.

Step 5:

After answering all questions, tap Submit to complete your test.

You’ll get a confirmation message that your pre-test has been successfully submitted.

Important: Make sure your phone is fully charged.

Use a strong internet connection (preferably Wi-Fi or 4G).

Avoid phone calls or app switching while writing — it may log you out.

You can take the test anytime from now but don’t wait till the deadline!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why did the NCS reschedule the Superintendent Cadre pre-test?

The rescheduling was necessary after many applicants faced technical issues, including server errors and timeouts, during the first attempt on September 22, 2025.

Q2: How can I check my new test schedule?

You can check your assigned Batch, Date, and Time by visiting updates.customs.gov.ng and logging in with your NIN.

Q3: Does the pre-test determine who gets recruited?

No. The pre-test is only to help applicants familiarise themselves with the system. It does not affect the final recruitment outcome.

Q4: Who is eligible to participate in this pre-test?

Only shortlisted Superintendent Cadre candidates are required to log in at this stage. Inspectorate and Assistant Cadre applicants will be contacted separately.

Q5: Will the test link change?

No. The NCS confirmed that the pre-test link remains the same as the one earlier shared via email.

Q6: What happens if I miss my batch schedule?

Candidates must strictly comply with their assigned batch and time. Failure to do so may lead to disqualification.

Final Thoughts

The Nigeria Customs Service recruitment pre-test for the Superintendent Cadre has been rescheduled to ensure fairness and smooth participation for all shortlisted candidates. While the earlier technical challenges caused frustration, the new batch system is expected to reduce portal overload and give every applicant a fair opportunity. If you are among the shortlisted candidates, ensure you log in to the official portal with your NIN, check your schedule, and comply with your assigned batch to avoid disqualification. Stay updated on Bestexamhub.com.ng for the latest recruitment news, federal job opportunities, and exam guides in Nigeria.

ALSO READ: Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment for DSSC Course 34/2025

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Nigeria Customs Service Reschedules Superintendent Cadre Pre-Test After Portal Issues