The NDLEA recruitment portal is the online platform where eligible Nigerians submit applications to join the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) — the federal agency responsible for drug control, enforcement, and public safety in Nigeria. NDLEA recruitment exercises are among the most competitive federal government opportunities, attracting applicants from across the country.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the NDLEA recruitment portal 2026, including current status, official application steps, eligibility requirements, and how to track your application.
About the NDLEA Recruitment Portal
The official NDLEA recruitment information, including application guidelines, is published on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency website:
The recruitment form, once released, will appear under the Careers or Recruitment section of the site.
Important note: The application portal is not yet open for the 2026 cycle at the time of writing; the agency has not publicly released the official online form for this cycle.
When it opens, applications will be accepted online via the official platform — not via social media or unofficial third-party sites. Always confirm the URL before submitting personal data.
Current Status of NDLEA Recruitment 2025/2026
As of early 2026:
- The official NDLEA recruitment portal is not currently open for new applications.
- Job seekers should watch www.ndlea.gov.ng for announcements about the portal opening.
- Some unofficial social media posts suggest different opening dates (e.g., January 20, 2026), but these are unverified until confirmed on the official website.
Be cautious of fake recruitment adverts or claims on social media — the NDLEA has previously alerted the public to ignore fraudulent ads claiming recruitment dates.
NDLEA Recruitment Requirements
While the official portal is not open yet, the general eligibility criteria historically include:
Citizenship and Character
- Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth
- Must be of good character, with no criminal record
- Must be medically, mentally, and physically fit
Age Requirements
- Applicants are typically between 18 and 35 years old (may vary by cadre)
Education Qualifications
NDLEA recruits candidates into multiple cadres based on educational attainment:
- Assistant/Narcotic Assistant Cadre: Minimum of SSCE/WAEC/NECO with at least 3–5 credits including Mathematics and English
- Narcotic Agent Cadre: Recognised ND/NCE/HND or equivalent
- Superintendent Cadre (Officer Level): HND/B.Sc/Professional qualifications for higher ranks
Higher professional qualifications and certificates relevant to specialised roles (medicine, pharmacy, law, engineering, forensics, ICT, etc.) may be required for specialist positions.
Documents You Should Prepare
Having the following ready will make your eventual application smoother:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Passport photograph
- SSCE/WAEC/NECO results
- Higher qualification certificates (ND, HND, B.Sc, etc.)
- NYSC discharge/exemption certificate (if applicable)
- State/Local Government of Origin certificate
- Valid email address and phone number
- Any professional certificates relevant to specialised roles
Prepare clear scanned copies of all documents in the required formats.
How to Apply for NDLEA Recruitment (When Portal Opens)
Once the portal is officially open:
- Visit the Official NDLEA Portal:
Go to www.ndlea.gov.ng. - Find Recruitment Section:
Click the Careers or Recruitment tab to access the application form. - Register an Account:
Sign up with a valid email address and phone number. - Login and Complete Form:
Fill in your personal details, education, and contact information. - Upload Documents:
Upload all required scanned documents. - Review & Submit:
Double-check entries for accuracy before submitting. - Print Acknowledgement Slip:
After submission, print a confirmation slip — you will need it for future tracking.
Always follow the instructions on the official portal and submit only once per recruitment cycle. Multiple applications often lead to disqualification.
Shortlist and Screening
After the portal closes:
- Shortlisted candidates are usually published on the official NDLEA site under the recruitment section.
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited for screening, Fitness and Medical Tests, and other assessments depending on the agency’s requirements.
Common Alerts & Scam Prevention
- Recruitment into NDLEA is free — do not pay anyone for applications or shortcuts.
- Avoid third-party sites that mimic official portals; only use ndlea.gov.ng.
- Ignore specific recruitment claims, dates, or requirements not published on the official site.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the NDLEA recruitment portal open for 2026?
No. As of now, the official portal has not opened for the 2025/2026 recruitment cycle. Watch www.ndlea.gov.ng for updates.
What is the official NDLEA recruitment portal?
The official website for NDLEA recruitment information is www.ndlea.gov.ng.
Can non-Nigerians apply?
No. Only Nigerian citizens by birth are eligible for recruitment.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. NDLEA recruitment is free of charge.
What qualifications do I need?
Minimum of SSCE with credits for assistant roles; ND/HND/B.Sc for higher cadres; specialist positions may need professional certifications.
Where will shortlists be published?
Shortlists will be published on the NDLEA official site under the recruitment section once available.