Are you planning to join the Department of State Services (DSS) — also known as the State Security Service (SSS) — in 2025?
One important aspect of DSS recruitment that most applicants want to know is:
How much is the DSS training allowance?
How long does DSS training last?
Where is the DSS training school located?
This official 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about DSS training duration, training centers, and stipends for both graduates and non-graduates.
After being shortlisted, applicants go through intensive security training to prepare them for intelligence, tactical, and field operations.
This training includes:
Weapon handling
Intelligence gathering techniques
Physical and combat fitness
Surveillance and communication
Secret operations (covert methods)
Entry Level | Training Duration |
---|---|
Graduate (BSc, HND – DSSC) | 6 to 9 months |
Non-Graduate (OND, SSCE) | 4 to 6 months |
Note: Duration depends on the category you applied for and may extend based on operational needs or national emergencies.
Most DSS training takes place at:
DSS Training School, Lagos State
Other tactical and advanced training may occur in:
Abuja (HQ and field base)
Kaduna (northern tactical operations)
Enugu or Uyo (for southern field training)
The DSS pays monthly allowances to all trainees throughout their training period.
Qualification | Estimated Monthly Allowance (₦) |
---|---|
SSCE / NECO | ₦45,000 – ₦60,000 |
OND | ₦55,000 – ₦70,000 |
HND / BSc | ₦70,000 – ₦95,000 |
MSc / PGD | ₦90,000 – ₦110,000 |
This allowance is not a salary — it’s a stipend to support trainees with feeding, kits, transportation, and minor logistics.
Feeding
Uniforms and kits
Transport logistics
Basic medical care
Accommodation (mostly provided free)
You may also receive extra allowances during live field exercises or special intelligence briefings.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Physical Drills | Daily road walk, running, strength tests |
Class Lectures | Intelligence, security laws, loyalty |
Firearms Training | Gun safety, combat skills |
Surveillance Ops | Tracking, tailing, and disguise |
Mental Resilience Tests | Stress handling and loyalty checks |
Yes. All DSS trainees receive monthly training allowances throughout the duration of their course.
For graduates: 6 to 9 months
For non-graduates: 4 to 6 months
No. Once you start, you’re expected to complete the program. Dropping out may result in a ban from future DSS recruitment.
DSS pays monthly, often at the end of each training month.
Yes. Recruits are required to stay within the camp for security and discipline.
The DSS training program in 2025 is not just rigorous but also rewarding. While the agency demands full commitment, it supports recruits with a monthly training allowance to cover their basic needs.
If you're preparing to join the DSS, expect to:
Train hard
Stay focused
Be disciplined
And enjoy a steady allowance while learning to serve Nigeria.