The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially released the shortlist of candidates for the final screening exercise for the 2025/2026 recruitment cycle. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information candidates need to successfully participate in the screening process.
Latest Updates on NDLEA Recruitment 2025/2026
Following a competitive application process that attracted thousands of applicants nationwide, NDLEA has carefully selected qualified candidates for the final screening phase. The Director of Media and Advocacy announced that the screening exercise will be conducted in multiple batches across designated centers to ensure orderly and efficient processing of all shortlisted candidates.
The 2025/2026 recruitment drive represents NDLEA’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking and abuse by recruiting qualified personnel across various specialized fields including law enforcement, medical services, legal services, and administrative support.
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How to Check Your NDLEA Shortlist Status
Candidates who applied for NDLEA recruitment can verify their shortlist status through the following methods:
Official Website Check: Visit the official NDLEA website at www.ndlea.gov.ng and navigate to the recruitment section. The complete list of shortlisted candidates is published with their application numbers and assigned screening dates.
Application Number Verification: Use your unique application number to search for your name on the shortlist. The system will display your screening venue, date, and batch assignment if you’ve been selected.
SMS Notification: Some candidates may receive SMS notifications about their shortlist status. However, it’s recommended to verify through the official website for accurate information.
List of Shortlist States
The NDLEA has published a shortlist for candidates from all the states in the country:
| Abia | Adamawa | Akwa Ibom |
| Anambra | Bauchi | Bayelsa |
| Benue | Borno | Cross River |
| Delta | Ebonyi | Edo |
| Ekiti | Enugu | Gombe |
| Imo | Jigawa | Kaduna |
| Kano | Katsina | Kebbi |
| Kogi | Kwara | Lagos |
| Nasarawa | Niger | Ogun |
| Ondo | Osun | Oyo |
| Plateau | Rivers | Sokoto |
| Taraba | Yobe | Zamfara and FCT |
Screening Venues and Schedule 2025/2026
The NDLEA screening exercise will take place at two primary locations:
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Address: No. 6, Port Harcourt Crescent, Off Gimbiya Street, Area 11, Garki, Abuja
Specialized Categories Schedule:
- Legal Officers (Lawyers): First week of screening
- Language Specialists and Interpreters: Second phase
- Medical Doctors and Healthcare Professionals: Third phase
- Special Skills Categories: Final specialized phase
NDLEA Academy, Jos, Plateau State
Address: NDLEA Academy, Katon Rikkos, Jos, Plateau State
General Categories: Conducted in multiple batches spread across several weeks to accommodate all shortlisted candidates effectively.
Narcotic Assistant Cadre: Special extended schedule with dedicated batches for this category.
Required Documents for NDLEA Screening
All shortlisted candidates must present the following documents during screening:
Academic Documents
- Original and photocopy of First School Leaving Certificate or Primary School Certificate
- Original and photocopy of West African School Certificate (WASC/SSCE) or equivalent
- Original and photocopy of National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or Bachelor’s Degree
- Original and photocopy of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Certificate or Exemption Letter
- Professional certificates (where applicable)
Personal Documents
- Original Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age
- Certificate of State of Origin from Local Government Area
- Valid means of identification (National ID Card, International Passport, or Driver’s License)
Medical Requirements
- Certificate of Medical Fitness from a recognized Government Hospital
- The medical certificate must be recent (not older than 3 months)
- HIV/AIDS test result
- Drug test clearance certificate
Additional Requirements
- Completed and signed Guarantors Form with passport photographs of guarantors
- Two recent passport photographs
- A pair of white round-neck T-shirts
- A pair of black or blue shorts
- White canvas shoes
- White stockings/socks
NDLEA Recruitment Categories 2025/2026
The current recruitment covers multiple categories designed to strengthen NDLEA’s operational capacity:
Senior Officer Cadre
This category includes graduates with specialized skills in law, medicine, pharmacy, accounting, and other professional fields. Candidates in this category undergo comprehensive screening including written examinations, oral interviews, and medical evaluations.
Narcotic Assistant Cadre
The largest recruitment category, targeting candidates with minimum qualifications of SSCE or equivalent. This cadre forms the backbone of NDLEA’s field operations and requires physical fitness assessments alongside academic evaluations.
Specialized Categories
Including linguists, computer specialists, forensic experts, and intelligence analysts. These positions require specific technical qualifications and undergo tailored assessment procedures.
Preparation Tips for NDLEA Screening
Physical Fitness Preparation
NDLEA screening includes rigorous physical fitness tests. Candidates should:
- Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises
- Practice basic military-style drills
- Maintain proper body weight and fitness levels
- Prepare for endurance tests including running and obstacle courses
Academic Preparation
- Review current affairs and general knowledge
- Study Nigeria’s drug laws and NDLEA’s mandate
- Prepare for aptitude tests covering English, Mathematics, and logical reasoning
- Research NDLEA’s history, achievements, and current operations
Documentation Preparation
- Ensure all documents are properly certified
- Prepare multiple copies of each required document
- Organize documents in a neat folder for easy presentation
- Verify that all certificates are authentic and properly signed
What to Expect During NDLEA Screening
Day 1: Documentation and Registration
Candidates present required documents for verification and complete registration processes. This includes biometric capture and assignment of screening numbers.
Day 2: Written Examinations
Aptitude tests covering general knowledge, English language, mathematics, and job-specific knowledge areas.
Day 3: Physical Fitness Tests
Comprehensive physical assessments including running, jumping, climbing, and other fitness evaluations.
Day 4: Medical Examinations
Thorough medical screening conducted by qualified medical personnel to ensure candidates meet health requirements.
Day 5: Oral Interviews
Final assessment involving panel interviews to evaluate candidates’ suitability for NDLEA service.
Sample Previous Shortlist Reference
Note: The following is a sample format of how NDLEA typically presents shortlisted candidates. Actual names and numbers are representative examples only..
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I’m shortlisted for NDLEA screening?
Kindly Check the official NDLEA website at www.ndlea.gov.ng under the recruitment section. Your name will appear with your application number if you’re shortlisted.
What happens if I miss my assigned screening date?
Answer: Missing your assigned screening date typically results in disqualification. However, you may contact NDLEA recruitment office immediately to explain genuine emergencies, though no guarantee exists for rescheduling.
Can I choose my preferred screening venue?
Answer: No, screening venues are assigned based on your application details and category. You must report to your designated venue as specified in the shortlist.
What is the pass mark for NDLEA screening?
Answer: NDLEA doesn’t typically publish specific pass marks. The screening is competitive, and successful candidates are selected based on overall performance across all assessment areas.
How long does the entire screening process take?
Answer: The complete screening process typically takes 3-5 days depending on your category and batch assignment.
What should I do if my name is not on the shortlist?
Answer: If your name doesn’t appear on the shortlist, you weren’t selected for this recruitment cycle. Keep monitoring NDLEA announcements for future recruitment opportunities.
Can I bring electronic devices to the screening venue?
Answer: Electronic devices like phones, calculators, and smartwatches are typically not allowed during examinations. Check specific instructions for your screening batch.
What type of medical examination is conducted?
Answer: The medical examination includes general health assessment, vision and hearing tests, blood tests, and evaluation of physical fitness for law enforcement duties.
Is there an age limit for NDLEA recruitment?
Answer: Yes, age requirements vary by category but generally range from 18-30 years for most positions. Check specific requirements for your applied category.
What happens after successful completion of screening?
Answer: Successful candidates proceed to NDLEA training academy for comprehensive training before deployment to various commands nationwide.
Can I apply for multiple categories simultaneously?
Answer: Typically, candidates can only apply for one primary category per recruitment cycle, though some specialized positions may have different rules.
What is the salary structure for NDLEA officers?
Answer: NDLEA follows federal government salary structure. Specific salary details are usually provided during the final selection process.
How can I verify the authenticity of NDLEA recruitment announcements?
Answer: Always verify recruitment information through official NDLEA channels: website, verified social media accounts, and official press releases.
What physical fitness standards are required?
Answer: Physical fitness requirements include running, jumping, climbing, and general endurance tests. Specific standards vary by category and are evaluated during screening.
Can I appeal if I’m disqualified during screening?
Answer: NDLEA has internal review mechanisms, but appeals must be based on procedural errors rather than assessment outcomes. Contact the recruitment office for specific appeal procedures.
Important Reminders for Candidates
Before Screening Day
- Confirm your screening venue and date multiple times
- Prepare all required documents well in advance
- Ensure physical fitness through regular exercise
- Get adequate rest and maintain good health
- Plan your travel to arrive early at the screening venue
During Screening
- Arrive early and be punctual for all sessions
- Dress appropriately and professionally
- Follow all instructions from screening officials
- Maintain honesty and integrity throughout the process
- Respect fellow candidates and officials
After Screening
- Await official results through designated channels
- Don’t fall victim to fraudulent result manipulation offers
- Continue monitoring NDLEA official communications
- Prepare for training if successfully selected
Contact Information and Support
For official inquiries regarding NDLEA recruitment and screening:
Official Website: www.ndlea.gov.ng Email: recruitment@ndlea.gov.ng Phone: Check official website for current contact numbers
Physical Address: National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Headquarters No. 6, Port Harcourt Crescent, Off Gimbiya Street Area 11, Garki, Abuja
Conclusion
The NDLEA recruitment screening represents a significant opportunity for qualified Nigerians to contribute to national security and drug law enforcement. Success requires thorough preparation, attention to detail, and commitment to the screening process requirements.
Candidates are strongly advised to rely only on official NDLEA communications and avoid fraudulent individuals claiming to influence the recruitment process. The selection process is merit-based and transparent, designed to recruit the most qualified candidates for various positions within the agency.
Stay updated with official NDLEA announcements and prepare thoroughly for this important opportunity to serve Nigeria in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. Good luck to all shortlisted candidates in the 2025/2026 recruitment screening exercise.
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