Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC Online Application Form 2025/2026: Applications are invited from eligible Nigerians for commission into the Nigerian Army (NA) as Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) officers. The SSCC application is open to both civilians and serving military personnel with appropriate qualifications. On completion of training and when commissioned as officers, the SSCC officers would serve only in the Combat Arms (Infantry and Armour Corps) and Combat Support Arms (Artillery, Engineers, Signals and Intelligence Corps) of the Nigerian Army. You can check Nigerian Army 90RRI Regular Recruitment Portal 2025/2026 if you want to apply as an army recruit, application is still open.
if you’re a Nigerian with a degree in hand and a burning desire to lead from the front, the Nigerian Army’s Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) and Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) for 2025/2026 could be your big break. Having tracked military career paths for a while, I can tell you this isn’t just another job—it’s a chance to join an elite cadre within one of Nigeria’s most revered institutions.
Whether you’re a civilian ready to trade your diploma for a beret or a serving soldier aiming to climb the ranks, this guide breaks it all down for you. I’ve dug into the details to ensure you’ve got everything you need to hit the ground running. Let’s get into it.
What’s the Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC All About?
Imagine a program that turns graduates into officers, steering the Nigerian Army’s combat and support operations with sharp minds and steady hands. The SSCC targets both civilians and serving military personnel for combat roles—think Infantry, Armour, Artillery, Engineers, Signals, and Intelligence—where you’ll be on the frontline or supporting critical missions. The DSSC, often a parallel track, focuses on professionals (like doctors, engineers, or lawyers) for specialized roles, though this guide zeroes in on the SSCC aspect as per the current call.
This 49/2026 intake invites eligible Nigerians to step into officer shoes after a grueling training stint. Successful candidates, commissioned as second lieutenants, will serve initially for 15 years, with 10 years active and a possible 5-year extension, or even convert to a Regular Combatant Commission if slots open up. It’s a fast track for those with a Higher National Diploma (HND) or Bachelor’s degree, opening from October 9 to November 12, 2025. This isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s for those ready to lead under pressure.
Why Join The Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC Online Application Form 2025/2026? The Perks of SSC/DSSC
Let’s be honest: military life demands sacrifice, but the rewards are worth it, especially in a nation where career stability is gold. Enlisting via SSC/DSSC isn’t just a job—it’s a launchpad for leadership, personal growth, and national pride. Here’s what you’re signing up for:
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Leadership Role: Start as a second lieutenant, with a clear path to higher ranks.
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Competitive Pay and Allowances: A solid salary (starting around ₦150,000–₦200,000 monthly for entry-level officers) plus housing, medical, and operational perks.
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Education and Training: Sponsored advanced courses and opportunities to sharpen your skills.
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Pension and Benefits: A robust retirement plan after years of service.
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Serve with Pride: Protect Nigeria’s sovereignty, from local ops to international peacekeeping.
It’s a life of purpose, where you could retire with a pension and a legacy of service—stories from officers I’ve spoken to highlight the pride that comes with it.
How to Apply: Mastering the SSC/DSSC Online Application
The application process is digital, free, and streamlined—perfect for the tech-savvy. Head to https://recruitment.army.mil.ng, select the SSC option, and follow these steps like a pro:
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Visit the Recruitment Webpage: Go to recruitment.army.mil.ng and click the SSC tab.
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Review Conditions: Read the SSCC Course 49/2026 entry requirements carefully.
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Apply Now: Hit the “Apply Now” button for SSC 49/2026 based on your qualifications.
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Service Status: Indicate if you’re a serving or former Armed Forces member.
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Sign Up or Log In: New users create an account (verify via email), while returnees log in with existing details.
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Fill the Form: Enter your info and upload required docs—passport photo, educational certificates, state of origin, birth certificate, NIN, and BVN slips.
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Print Photo-Slip: After submission, print the generated photo-slip. Get the first page signed by a court registrar and the second by your LGA Chairman/Secretary or a Lieutenant Colonel (or equivalent) from your state.
It’s a 30–60 minute process if you’re prepared. Apply early—server lags hit hard near deadlines. And yes, it’s free; anyone demanding payment is a fraud.
The Essentials: Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC Online Application Form 2025/2026 Entry Requirements
The Nigerian Army doesn’t mess around—these criteria ensure only the best step up. Here’s what you need to qualify:
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Citizenship: Nigerian by birth, per the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
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Age: 23–27 years by January 9, 2026.
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Fitness: Medically, mentally, and physically fit per Army standards.
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Character: Civilians need two referees (LGA Chairman/Secretary or Lt. Col./equivalent) with passport photos attached. Serving personnel need Commanding Officer endorsement.
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Attestation: A letter from your former institution.
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Height: Males: 1.68m; Females: 1.65m.
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Clean Record: No court convictions or military disciplinary issues.
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Education: First degree (Second Class Lower) or HND (Lower Credit) in arts, sciences, or humanities from an accredited institution, earned 2017–2025.
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Docs: Valid birth certificate (NPC, hospital, or LGA) and state of origin certificate.
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NYSC: Discharge or exemption certificate for civilians.
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Contact: Valid addresses and numbers for parents/guardians and Next of Kin.
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No Tattoos: Zero body inscriptions.
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Original Certificates: Bring all from primary to tertiary.
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Service Personnel: Valid ID, 5+ years service, sponsorship letters, and declaration of status.
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No Cults: No affiliation with secret societies.
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No Dismissals: No prior disciplinary exits from military or para-military training.
Miss one, and you’re out. But if you fit, you’re in the game.
Beyond the Basics: Preparation and Next Steps For Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC Online Application Form 2025/2026
For civilians, gather refs and docs early—referees’ letters take time. Serving personnel, ensure your CO’s support is airtight. Prep physically: run, lift, and master the 10 Basic School Exercises. Brush up on Nigerian history and leadership principles for interviews. Scan docs at 200–300 DPI for clarity.
After applying, shortlists hit the portal around late November 2025. Selected? Report for screening with your photo-slip and forms. Training starts in early 2026 at a designated depot, turning you into an officer.
Conditions of Service: What to Expect
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Tenure: 15 years—10 active, 5 renewable; no extension beyond unless converted to Regular Combatant.
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Rank: Second lieutenant post-training, with seniority from cadet start date.
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Conversion: Possible to Regular Combatant, but not guaranteed—depends on vacancies.
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Contract: Sign terms before commissioning; reckonable service starts at cadet training (civilians) or enlistment (military).
Closing Thoughts: Your Call to Duty
The Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC Online Application 2025/2026 is a golden ticket for degree holders to lead with honor. It’s tough, but the payoff—leadership, stability, and pride—is immense. I’ve seen graduates turn into commanders, families thrive on the benefits. If this calls to you, apply by November 12, 2025, prep hard, and step up. Got questions? Check the portal or ask around. Nigeria’s waiting—make your mark!
