HOW TO APPLY: Army Invite Nigerians for 2026 Short Service Recruitment Exercise
The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of its 2026 recruitment exercise for the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49, calling on eligible Nigerians to apply and serve as commissioned officers in the nation’s armed forces.
According to the announcement, the online application portal officially opened on Thursday, October 9, 2025, and will close on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The exercise is open to both serving military personnel and qualified civilian applicants who meet the required criteria.
In a statement, the Army explained that the SSCC programme is designed to produce combat-ready officers who will serve in both combat arms and combat support arms after undergoing intensive military training.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth and aged between 23 and 27 years as of January 9, 2026. They must also be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Army standards.
Civilian candidates are required to present letters of attestation from two reputable individuals, such as a Local Government Chairman or Secretary, or a senior military or police officer not below the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or Assistant Commissioner of Police.
Other requirements include:
A minimum of a first degree (Second Class Lower) or HND (Lower Credit) from an accredited institution (2017 to date).
A valid birth certificate/age declaration and certificate of state of origin.
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NYSC discharge or exemption certificate for non-military applicants.
Minimum height of 1.68m for males and 1.65m for females.
No tattoos, body inscriptions, or criminal convictions.
Serving personnel must have served at least five years, possess a valid service ID card, and obtain recommendation letters from their commanding officers.
Candidates must not be members of any cult, secret society, or fraternity, and must not have been dismissed or withdrawn from any military or paramilitary training institution.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are to visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal at recruitment.army.mil.ng and select the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) option.
Applicants should read the conditions of entry for SSC Course 49/2026, then click “Apply Now” under the appropriate section according to their qualification. They will be required to indicate whether they are currently serving or have previously served in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
New users should click “Sign Up” to create an account, after which a verification link will be sent to their email. Applicants can then log in with their credentials to complete the registration process.
The Nigerian Army emphasized that all applications are free of charge and advised prospective candidates to avoid dealing with fraudsters or unofficial websites.
The Short Service Combatant Commission is a key pathway for young and qualified Nigerians to contribute to national defence, leadership, and peacekeeping, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to building a disciplined and professional force.
By PRNigeria
