FCSC cautions Nigerians against fake recruitment links

The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has cautioned members of the public against fake recruitment messages and unauthorised application links circulating on social media and other online platforms.

The Commission, in a statement signed by its Head of Press and Public Relations, Ibraheem Zakariyya, on Friday, urged prospective applicants to verify recruitment information through its official website and authorised communication channels before taking any action.

It advised the public against clicking on unsolicited recruitment links, submitting personal information or making payments to individuals, social media accounts, WhatsApp groups, blogs or unofficial websites claiming to represent the Commission.

The FCSC said genuine recruitment into the Federal Civil Service follows established rules and procedures and was not conducted through private agents, middlemen or individuals who claim to have the power to secure employment, influence shortlisting or issue appointment letters.

According to the Commission, Rule 020102(i) of the Public Service Rules (2021) provides that appointments to positions on Grade Levels 07 to 17 are made by the FCSC as vacancies arise and following due advertisement.

It noted that such vacancies were required to be advertised in three national newspapers and on the official website of the Commission, with a specified deadline for submission of applications.

The Commission also cited Rule 020206 of the Public Service Rules, which requires applicants to meet prescribed eligibility conditions, including possessing relevant qualifications contained in the approved Schemes of Service.

It also noted that no officer could be appointed into the Federal Public Service without an authorised establishment and the required recruitment waiver from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, where applicable.

The FCSC urged job seekers to look out for official recruitment announcements issued through its established communication channels, particularly publicity from its Press and Public Relations Unit.

It advised applicants to use only the application portal specified in an official FCSC announcement whenever online applications were opened.

It also advised prospective applicants to carefully read official vacancy announcements to confirm available positions, qualifications, eligibility requirements, application procedures and closing dates.

It urged applicants to provide accurate information and genuine documents, warning that false declarations, forged certificates or fraudulent documentation could lead to disqualification and other consequences under applicable rules.

Applicants who successfully complete an official online application were also advised to keep their application or reference numbers, confirmation messages, email correspondence and other records generated during the process.

The Commission said members of the public who were uncertain about any recruitment information should seek clarification directly from it rather than relying on intermediaries.