The directive follows widespread complaints from applicants who encountered technical glitches while trying to access the recruitment portal to check their status. 

The CDCFIB had earlier announced that shortlisted candidates could begin verifying their applications on October 30 or 31, but delays in data processing frustrated thousands of hopefuls.

Speaking during a briefing in Abuja, Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed concern over the setbacks and emphasized the need for transparency and efficiency in the process.

“We cannot afford further delays. The board must resolve all technical issues and finalize the upload of applicant information without any more excuses,” the minister stated. 

He assured applicants that the ministry is committed to a seamless, merit-based recruitment and urged the CDCFIB to deploy additional technical resources to meet the deadline.

The recruitment exercise, which covers the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), attracted over 1.2 million applications when it opened earlier this year.

Applicants have been advised to remain patient as the board works to restore full functionality to the portal. 

The CDCFIB has promised updates within the next 24 hours.The minister’s swift intervention has been welcomed by youth groups and civil society organizations monitoring the exercise, who called for greater accountability in public sector hiring.