The Federal Government has exposed seven common mistakes that could cost Nigerians opportunities to secure public service jobs, urging applicants to follow official recruitment procedures and avoid falling victim to fraudsters.
The advice was contained in a public awareness post published by the Federal Character Commission (FCC) on its website on Tuesday.
According to the commission, many applicants unknowingly reduce their chances of success by ignoring recruitment guidelines, submitting inaccurate information or relying on unofficial sources for vacancy announcements.
The FCC listed the seven mistakes as follows:
- Applying through unverified sources
- Paying someone to secure a government job
- Ignoring application requirements
- Missing application deadlines
- Providing incorrect information
- Failing to prepare beyond the application stage
- Assuming every advertised opportunity is genuine
The commission warned applicants against relying on unofficial websites, social media posts and forwarded messages, noting that fraudsters often create fake recruitment portals and advertisements to deceive job seekers.
It advised Nigerians to verify recruitment information through recognised government platforms before submitting applications or personal information.
The FCC also cautioned applicants against paying individuals who claim they can influence government recruitment processes.
“Applicants should be cautious of anyone requesting payment or claiming they can guarantee employment, and they are encouraged to report suspicious recruitment activities through appropriate channels,” the advisory read.
The agency stressed that while concerns about unfair recruitment practices should be taken seriously, recruitment into federal institutions follows official procedures and anyone collecting money or manipulating the process is acting outside the law.
It explained that applicants should carefully study eligibility requirements, including educational qualifications, age limits, professional certifications, work experience and required documents before submitting applications.
FCC further advised candidates not to wait until the closing days of recruitment exercises before applying, warning that delays could lead to incomplete submissions or missed deadlines.
On accuracy, the agency called on applicants to thoroughly review their personal details, qualifications and contact information before completing their applications, noting that errors could affect verification and eligibility.
The commission enjoined candidates to prepare for aptitude tests, interviews and other assessments after submitting applications, rather than assuming the recruitment process ends with the application.
It reiterated that not every vacancy advertised online is legitimate, advising job seekers to avoid opportunities that promise guaranteed employment, demand payment before applications are processed or create unnecessary urgency.
