The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced vacancies for suitably qualified candidates to fill various positions across its port operations in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Onne, Warri and Calabar.
The recruitment exercise is aimed at attracting high-performing, innovative and capable individuals who can work efficiently, meet deadlines and contribute to the effective administration of Nigeria’s ports.
Available positions range from trainee-level opportunities for candidates with secondary school qualifications to professional marine, engineering and radio communication positions requiring relevant academic qualifications, certificates and work experience.
According to the recruitment notice provided, applicants are expected to submit their applications through the designated NPA careers channel. Applicants should also be cautious of fraudulent recruitment websites and individuals requesting payment for employment.
This article explains the available Nigerian Ports Authority vacancies, eligibility requirements, required documents, application process, important tips and common mistakes applicants should avoid.
Nigerian Ports Authority Recruitment Positions
The advertised vacancies include the following positions:
- Pilot Trainee – JSS 2 (GL 06)
- Marine Engineering Trainee – JSS 2 (GL 06).
- Trainee Seaman – JSS 3 (GL 04)
- Signalman-in-Training – JSS 3 (GL 04).
- Radio Officer II – SSS 4 (GL 08)
- Assistant Manager Radio – SSS 1 (GL 12).
- Marine Officer II – SSS 4 (GL 08)
- Senior Marine Officer/Engineer – SSS 2 (GL 10).
- Assistant Manager Harbours – SSS 1 (GL 12).
The positions cover several areas of port administration, including marine operations, harbour management, radio communication, navigation and marine engineering.
Nigerian Ports Authority Recruitment Locations
The Nigerian Ports Authority operates port facilities in several locations. The recruitment notice identifies the following locations:
- Lagos
- Port Harcourt
- Onne
- Warri
- Calabar
Applicants should carefully check the official recruitment information to understand whether a particular position has location-specific requirements.
1. Pilot Trainee – GL 06
The Pilot Trainee position is intended for candidates interested in developing a career in marine navigation and port pilotage.
Requirements
Applicants are expected to have:
- Minimum of OND in Nautical Science or Marine Engineering
- Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate of Fitness.
- Mandatory relevant certificates
- West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or equivalent.
- Knowledge of ICT is an added advantage
- Age between 20 and 27 years
The ability to swim is stated as a necessary prerequisite for the applicable positions, including the Pilot Trainee position.
2. Marine Engineering Trainee – GL 06
The Marine Engineering Trainee position provides an opportunity for qualified candidates with a background in marine engineering to pursue a career within port and marine operations.
Requirements
Candidates should have:
- Minimum of OND in Marine Engineering or Nautical Science.
- Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate of Fitness.
- Mandatory certificates
- WASSCE or equivalent
- ICT knowledge is an added advantage.
- Age between 20 and 27 years
Applicants should ensure that all marine-related certificates submitted with their application are valid and authentic.
3. Trainee Seaman – GL 04
The Trainee Seaman position is suitable for candidates who meet the basic educational and age requirements specified by the Authority.
Requirements
Applicants must have:
- At least five credits in science subjects.
- Credits must include English Language and Mathematics
- Results must not be obtained in more than two sittings.
- WASSCE or equivalent certificate
- Certificate should have been obtained within the last eight years, according to the notice.
- ICT knowledge is an added advantage
- Age between 18 and 25 years
Applicants should carefully verify their examination result details before applying.
4. Signalman-in-Training – GL 04
The Signalman-in-Training position is another entry-level opportunity under the recruitment exercise.
Requirements
Candidates should possess:
- Minimum of five credits in science subjects.
- English Language and Mathematics must be among the credits.
- Maximum of two sittings
- WASSCE or equivalent
- Certificate obtained within the last eight years
- ICT knowledge is an added advantage
- Age between 18 and 25 years
5. Radio Officer II – GL 08
Radio Officer II is a more specialized position focused on marine communication and related technical responsibilities.
Qualifications
Applicants are expected to possess:
- B.Sc. or HND in Electrical/Electronics Engineering or Information Technology.
- STCW 95 certification
- GMDSS certification
- Relevant mandatory certificates
- Required age range as stated in the official recruitment notice.
Candidates applying for this position should ensure that their professional certificates are clearly listed on their CV.
6. Assistant Manager Radio – GL 12
The Assistant Manager Radio position requires considerably more professional experience.
Requirements
Candidates are expected to have:
- B.Sc. or HND in Electrical/Electronics Engineering or Information Technology.
- STCW 95
- GMDSS certification
- 10 years of cognate experience
- Relevant professional certificates
- Age within the range specified for the position.
Because this is a management-level role, applicants should provide detailed evidence of their professional experience and responsibilities.
7. Marine Officer II – GL 08
The Marine Officer II position is designed for candidates with relevant nautical training and professional maritime qualifications.
Requirements
Applicants should possess:
- Minimum of OND in Nautical Science.
- CoW (Unlimited) Certificate of Competency.
- Mandatory relevant certificates
- Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate
- Age between 22 and 35 years
Applicants should ensure that their certificates are valid and relevant to the position being applied for.
8. Senior Marine Officer/Engineer – GL 10
The Senior Marine Officer/Engineer position requires a higher level of professional maritime qualification.
Requirements
Candidates should have:
- Class 2 Certificate of Competency (Deck).
- Chief Mate Unlimited or First Mate Certificate.
- Mandatory certificates
- Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate
- Age between 25 and 35 years
Applicants should carefully verify the exact certificate requirements before submitting their applications.
9. Assistant Manager Harbours – GL 12
The Assistant Manager Harbours position is a senior marine-related role.
Requirements
Candidates should possess:
- Class 1 Certificate of Competency (Deck) Unlimited.
- Mandatory relevant certificates
- Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate
- Age between 25 and 35 years
- Ability to swim
The position requires candidates with appropriate professional maritime credentials and the ability to meet the responsibilities associated with harbour operations.
What Applicants Should Know About NPA Recruitment
Applicants should understand that meeting the minimum educational qualification does not necessarily guarantee employment.
The recruitment process may involve several stages, including:
- Application submission
- Screening of submitted credentials
- Shortlisting
- Written test
- Interview
- Medical examination
- Final selection
According to the recruitment notice, only shortlisted applicants will be invited for the subsequent stages.
Applicants should therefore ensure that their application information is accurate and consistent with their certificates.
Eligibility Requirements at a Glance
Before applying, candidates should check the following:
| Position | Minimum Qualification | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot Trainee | OND Nautical Science/Marine Engineering | 20–27 |
| Marine Engineering Trainee | OND Nautical Science/Marine Engineering | 20–27 |
| Trainee Seaman | 5 credits including English & Mathematics | 18–25 |
| Signalman-in-Training | 5 credits including English & Mathematics | 18–25 |
| Radio Officer II | B.Sc./HND relevant field + professional certificates | As stated |
| Assistant Manager Radio | Relevant degree/HND + 10 years experience | As stated |
| Marine Officer II | OND Nautical Science + CoC | 22–35 |
| Senior Marine Officer/Engineer | Class 2 CoC/Chief Mate/First Mate | 25–35 |
| Assistant Manager Harbours | Class 1 CoC Deck Unlimited | 25–35 |
Important: Applicants should rely on the official recruitment notice for the final interpretation of qualifications, age limits and professional certificate requirements.
Required Documents for NPA Recruitment
Although applicants should follow the specific document instructions on the application platform, candidates should generally prepare relevant documents such as:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Educational certificates
- WASSCE/SSCE certificate or equivalent
- OND, HND or degree certificate where applicable
- Professional maritime certificates
- Certificate of Competency where applicable
- Seafarers Medical Certificate of Fitness
- STCW certificate where applicable
- GMDSS certificate for relevant radio positions
- Evidence of professional experience where required
- Valid means of identification
- Functional email address
- Active mobile telephone number
Candidates should scan their documents clearly where electronic submission is required.
How to Apply for Nigerian Ports Authority Recruitment
The recruitment notice provided states that qualified candidates should submit their applications with a comprehensive CV, including their email address, contact address, mobile telephone number and qualifications.
The stated application channel is:
Nigerian Ports Authority Careers:
www.nigerianports.org/careers
Applicants may also submit their applications to:
General Manager, Human Resources
Nigerian Ports Authority
26/28 Marina, Lagos.
The notice states that applications should be submitted within six weeks of the publication of the vacancy notice.
Applicants should confirm the current status and deadline from the official NPA recruitment channel before submitting an application.
Application Tips for Candidates
1. Apply for a position you genuinely qualify for
Do not apply simply because a position has an attractive salary grade. Carefully compare your qualifications, certificates, age and experience with the requirements.
2. Prepare a professional CV
Your CV should clearly show your:
- Educational background
- Professional qualifications
- Relevant experience
- Maritime certificates
- Technical skills
- Contact information
3. Use accurate information
The information on your application should correspond with your certificates and other supporting documents.
4. Check your email regularly
Applicants should use an active email address and regularly check their inbox and spam folder for recruitment communications.
5. Prepare for the written test
Shortlisted candidates may be required to take a written test. Revise relevant subjects and develop a good understanding of maritime operations, safety, communication, navigation and general knowledge where applicable.
6. Be ready for an interview
Candidates should be prepared to explain their qualifications, experience, technical skills and reasons for wanting to work with the Nigerian Ports Authority.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid the following mistakes during the recruitment process:
Submitting false information: Never provide fake certificates, incorrect age information or fabricated work experience.
Ignoring age requirements: Age limits differ among positions. Check the applicable age range before applying.
Applying without the required professional certificates: Some positions require specific maritime credentials. Having a general academic qualification may not be enough.
Submitting an incomplete CV: Make sure your CV contains your qualifications, professional experience and contact information.
Using unofficial websites: Fraudsters may create websites or social media accounts that imitate government recruitment platforms.
Paying recruitment fees: The notice specifically states that no fee is required for the NPA employment process. Applicants should be extremely cautious about anyone requesting money in exchange for shortlisting, employment or appointment.
Missing the deadline: Applications submitted after the stated closing period may not be considered.
Is Nigerian Ports Authority Recruitment Free?
Yes. According to the recruitment notice provided, there is no fee required for the Nigerian Ports Authority employment process.
Applicants should not pay anyone claiming to have the authority to guarantee employment, shortlist candidates or secure an appointment.
The NPA notice also warns members of the public about illegal websites allegedly impersonating the Authority and soliciting applications.
For this reason, applicants should verify recruitment information through the official NPA channel before submitting personal information or documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NPA recruitment currently available?
The vacancy notice provided announces recruitment for nine positions within the Nigerian Ports Authority. Applicants should verify the current application status and deadline through the official NPA careers channel before applying.
What qualifications are required for NPA recruitment?
Requirements depend on the position. Some trainee positions require WASSCE/SSCE or OND, while professional roles require HND/B.Sc., Certificates of Competency, STCW, GMDSS, medical certificates and relevant experience.
What is the age requirement for NPA recruitment?
The age requirement varies by position. Some trainee roles accept applicants from 18 years, while other positions have higher minimum ages and maximum ages of up to 35 years.
Is there an application fee?
No. The recruitment notice states that no fee is required for the employment process.
Where can I apply for NPA recruitment?
The notice directs applicants to the NPA careers channel at www.nigerianports.org/careers and also provides the General Manager, Human Resources, Nigerian Ports Authority, 26/28 Marina, Lagos, as an application submission address.
Can candidates with SSCE apply?
Yes, candidates with SSCE/WASSCE may qualify for positions such as Trainee Seaman and Signalman-in-Training if they satisfy all the stated requirements, including the required credits, age range and certificate validity period.
Is swimming required?
The recruitment notice states that the ability to swim is a necessary prerequisite for positions 1 and 9, namely Pilot Trainee and Assistant Manager Harbours.
Will every applicant be invited for an interview?
No. The notice states that only shortlisted applicants will be invited for the written test, interview and medical examination.
What should I do if someone asks me to pay for NPA employment?
Do not pay. The notice clearly states that there is no recruitment fee. Verify information through the official NPA recruitment channel and avoid unofficial websites or individuals claiming they can guarantee employment.
Read Also: Apply for ENSUBEB 2026 Teaching and Non-teaching Recruitment