Nigerian Army Opens 2026 Short Service Recruitment: How to Apply


The Nigerian Army has begun accepting applications for its Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49/2026, inviting qualified Nigerians to apply for enlistment as commissioned officers.

The recruitment exercise, which commenced on Thursday, October 9, 2025, will close on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, according to an official announcement from the Army.

The Short Service Combatant Commission offers an opportunity for both serving military personnel and eligible civilians to undergo intensive military training before being commissioned into combat and combat-support roles within the Nigerian Army.

Eligibility and Requirements 

Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth and between 23 and 27 years old as of January 9, 2026. 

All candidates are required to be medically, mentally, and physically fit in line with Army standards.

Civilian candidates must present letters of attestation from two reputable individuals, such as a Local Government Chairman/Secretary or a senior officer in the military or police (not below the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or Assistant Commissioner of Police).

Other key requirements include:

Minimum height: 1.68m (men) and 1.65m (women).

Academic qualification: Minimum of a first degree (Second Class Lower) or HND (Lower Credit) from an accredited institution, obtained between 2017 and 2025.

NYSC discharge or exemption certificate for civilian applicants.

Valid birth certificate, state of origin certificate, and referees’ attestation letters.

Applicants must have no tattoos, no criminal record, and must not belong to any cult or secret society.

Serving personnel must have completed at least five years of service, submit a recommendation letter from their commanding officer, and present a valid military ID.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are to visit the official recruitment portal: recruitment.army.mil.ng.

1. Select the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) option.

2. Review the conditions of entry for Course 49/2026.

3. Click on "Apply Now" under the SSC 49/2026 section.

4. Indicate whether you are currently serving or have served in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

5. New applicants should click "Sign Up" to create an account, a verification link will be sent to their email.

6. Log in using your credentials to complete the online form and upload all required documents.

The Army advised applicants to provide accurate information and warned that any false declaration would lead to disqualification.


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