By Anita John 
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) for the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) started today, Wednesday, November 12, 2025, across Nigeria for applicants shortlisted for recruitment into the four paramilitary services under the Ministry of Interior.
A few hours after the online test began, we noticed complaints on social media from applicants who were either automatically logged out or unable to access the CDCFIB portal.
For those preparing for their upcoming test, here are the basic instructions to ensure a smooth CBT experience.
Device to Use for the Test
Use a laptop with a camera: Some applicants have been unable to take the test because they accessed it on a mobile phone. You are advised to take the test on a laptop or desktop with a power backup, stable electricity, and a reliable internet connection.
ALSO READ: Exam Submitted: How To Fix CDCFIB Technical Glitches
Why not mobile phones or tablets: Unlike laptops, calls or notifications on mobile devices can disrupt your session.
Network considerations: If your location has fluctuating network coverage, move to an area with stable connectivity at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test.
Exam Basic Instructions
Log in 30 minutes before the test start time, according to the Secretary to the Board, retired Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril, who made this statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
You are expected to answer 40 questions within 60 minutes.
Once the exam begins, you cannot leave the examination screen, minimise, close, or switch tabs. Any attempt to do so will be recorded as a violation.
Three violations will lead to automatic disqualification, and the exam page will close.
Ensure your laptop battery can last at least one hour before starting.
Click “NEXT” after each question; your answers are saved automatically.
If disconnected due to poor network, you can rejoin the exam within the allotted time and continue. For example, if disconnected for 15 minutes immediately after starting, you will have 25 minutes remaining.
When your time expires, the system will automatically submit your exam.
Do not refresh the page, close the tab, or close the browser once the exam starts, even if your internet is weak.
Keep your laptop camera on if prompted for verification from the beginning of the exam until submission.
These instructions are also displayed in the examination waiting room on the portal.
CDCFIB Exam Link
Visit the recruitment portal at recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng.
Click on the official examination portal link, which will take you to exam.cdcfib.gov.ng.
Enter your NIN and the phone number used during registration.
Enter the displayed captcha.
Click Validate, allow validation, and then click Login to proceed to the exam room.
The Board’s Instructions
Exams begin daily at 9:00 AM until next week.
The same exam link is used for all four paramilitary services: Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
You will not be allowed to log in unless you are scheduled for the exam.
The portal opens 30 minutes before each scheduled exam.
Complete the photo verification process and remain in the virtual waiting room until the exam starts automatically at the scheduled time.
The system monitors and detects all forms of malpractice, third-party interference, and device manipulation. It is AI-proctored throughout the session.
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Editorial Staff 
Opeyemi Quadri