FG Raises Alarm Over Fake Diplomatic Recruitment Scam

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned Nigerians against a fraudulent recruitment message circulating online, claiming to offer employment opportunities in the Nigerian Diplomatic Service under the Consular Section of the Nigerian Embassies abroad.

A statement, signed by spokesperson in the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, described the message as fake, deceptive, and the handiwork of fraudsters seeking to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public.

According to the Ministry, the fraudulent notice falsely informs recipients that they have been shortlisted for diplomatic appointments and directs them to make payments for the processing of a so-called “credence note.”

The Ministry clarified that Nigerian Missions abroad are not conducting any recruitment exercise and stressed that recruitment into the Nigerian Foreign Service is only carried out through official government channels by the Federal Civil Service Commission.

It further stated that the Ministry does not recruit through emails, WhatsApp messages, or unsolicited contacts, adding that no payment is required at any stage of recruitment or diplomatic postings.

The statement also warned that references to DSS clearance and the use of the Ministry Spokesperson’s name in the fake message were deliberate attempts to mislead the public.

The Ministry urged Nigerians to ignore such messages and advised anyone approached for payment or who receives similar communications to report the matter immediately to security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and integrity, the Ministry advised members of the public to seek verification only through its official communication channels.

Uju Oparaji, Edited By Grace Namiji