How much does a Customs Officer earn in Nigeria?

A Customs Officer in Nigeria works under the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) to enforce trade and importation regulations, prevent smuggling, collect customs duties, and protect national revenue. Duties include inspecting goods and documents, monitoring border crossings, searching cargo, and ensuring compliance with import/export laws. Customs Officers play a critical role in national security and trade facilitation.

The average salary for a customs officer in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.

• Entry Level (0-3 years): 90000 - 120000
• Mid Level (4-8 years): 130000 - 170000
• Senior Level (9+ years / with supervisory roles): 180000 - 250000

• WASSCE / O'Level Certificate: Minimum requirement for junior cadre roles in the Nigerian Customs Service. Average monthly salary: 90000 - 110000.
• OND / NCE: Suitable for mid-level support positions. Average monthly salary: 110000 - 125000.
• Bachelor's Degree (e.g., B.Sc., B.A.): Required for commissioned officer roles. Average monthly salary: 140000 - 200000.
• Master's Degree: Can support appointment to higher administrative or specialised positions. Average monthly salary: 200000 and above.

To become a Customs Officer in Nigeria, candidates must meet the official requirements set by the Nigerian Customs Service and successfully pass through the recruitment process, which includes examinations, medical screening, and training.

1. Obtain at least five credits in WAEC/NECO, including English and Mathematics.
2. Acquire an OND/NCE, HND, or Bachelor's degree from a recognised Nigerian institution.
3. Visit the official Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) recruitment portal during open application periods.
4. Complete the online application form and upload necessary documents.
5. Participate in the written recruitment examination conducted by the Nigerian Customs Service.
6. Undergo physical and medical screening as part of the selection process.
7. Attend the Nigerian Customs Training School upon selection for formal training.
8. Receive appointment and begin duties as a Customs Officer after successful training.

Aspiring Customs Officers in Nigeria must have a minimum of five credits in SSCE/WASSCE/NECO (including English and Mathematics). For entry into senior officer positions, a university degree (such as B.Sc., HND, or its equivalent) from recognised institutions like University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, or Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna, is required. Additional qualifications may be needed for specialised units such as ICT or Legal.

While there is no mandatory certification beyond training from the Nigerian Customs Service Training College, obtaining further specialised certifications such as the Chartered Institute of Customs Brokers of Nigeria (CICBN) membership or short courses on international trade from the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) can be beneficial for career growth and deployment to specialised units.

To increase your chances of being noticed as a Customs Officer on LinkedIn, include 'Nigerian Customs Service' explicitly in your work history or career aspirations. Highlight your educational qualifications, relevant soft and technical skills, and participation in NCS recruitment or training methods. Join LinkedIn groups focused on Nigerian public service careers and trade compliance to expand your network.

See how a customs officer's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.