By Chioma Favour
📍Abuja | Media Report
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong warning to Nigerians over a fake recruitment message circulating online, which falsely claims to offer employment into the country’s diplomatic service.
In a statement released in Abuja, the Ministry disassociated itself from the fraudulent notice, describing it as misleading and a deliberate attempt by scammers to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The fake message reportedly informs recipients that they have been shortlisted for diplomatic roles under the consular section of Nigerian embassies abroad and instructs them to make payments for the processing of a so-called “credence note.”
The Ministry clarified that no such recruitment exercise is currently ongoing and emphasized that Nigerian missions abroad are not recruiting.
It further stated that all legitimate recruitment into the Nigerian Foreign Service is conducted strictly through official government channels, particularly the Federal Civil Service Commission, and not via emails, WhatsApp messages, or unsolicited contact.
The Ministry stressed that no fees are required at any stage of recruitment or diplomatic postings and warned that any request for payment in such circumstances is fraudulent.
It also noted that references to security clearance and the use of the Ministry’s spokesperson’s name in the fake message were calculated attempts to deceive the public.
Citizens who receive such messages or have been approached for payment are advised to report immediately to relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and urged the public to verify all official information through its recognized communication channels.
The statement was signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
