Are you planning to join the Nigerian Army in 2025? Whether you’re a graduate professional, a degree holder seeking military service, or a secondary school leaver, the Nigerian Army offers three major entry routes:

• DSSC – Direct Short Service Commission

• SSC – Short Service Combatant Commission

• NDA – Nigerian Defence Academy (Regular Course)

This guide breaks down the step-by-step process, entry requirements, and official portals for each of these categories to help you apply easily and successfully.

Available Entry Routes to Join the Nigerian Army

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for DSSC (2025)

The DSSC is for professionals like medical doctors, engineers, legal officers, and ICT experts.

Basic Requirements

• Nigerian by birth

• Age: 22–35 years

• BSc/HND from a recognized institution

• NYSC discharge/exemption certificate

• Relevant professional license (where applicable)

Official Portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

Documents Needed

• Passport photograph

• Birth certificate

• Certificate of origin

• Degree certificate and NYSC

• Valid ID (NIN, Driver’s License, etc.)

• Professional license (if applicable)

Application Steps

1. Visit recruitment.army.mil.ng

2. Click on “DSSC Application”

3. Create an account and fill in your personal details

4. Upload all required documents

5. Print your Acknowledgment Slip

6. Wait for shortlist and screening notification

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SSC (2025)

The SSC is for university or polytechnic graduates who want to serve in combat or technical military roles.

Basic Requirements

• Nigerian citizen

• Age: 22–28 years

• Minimum of Second Class Lower (BSc) or Upper Credit (HND)

• Physically and mentally fit

• Height: 1.68m (males), 1.65m (females)

• NYSC certificate

Official Portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

Application Steps

1. Go to the portal above

2. Click on “SSC Application”

3. Register with your valid email

4. Complete the form and upload your documents

5. Submit and print your Acknowledgment Slip

6. Prepare for screening and aptitude test

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for NDA (2025)

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is for SSCE holders looking to become military officers through academic and military training.

Basic Requirements

• Age: 17–21 years

• Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB, including English and Math

• Must sit for JAMB and select NDA as first choice

• Nigerian by birth

• Must be medically and physically fit

Official Portal: https://www.nda.edu.ng

Application Steps

1. Buy NDA application form online (usually ₦3,500)

2. Register and complete your application at nda.edu.ng

3. Upload your SSCE and JAMB result

4. Submit and print your Exam Card

5. Prepare for the NDA entrance exam

6. Await shortlist and attend screening at NDA in Kaduna

Summary Table: Entry Route, Requirements & Portal

FAQs – Nigerian Army Recruitment (2025)

1. Is the application free?

Yes. The Nigerian Army does not charge any fee for SSC or DSSC. Only NDA requires a form purchase.

2. Can women apply?

Yes! Both males and females can apply for DSSC, SSC, and NDA.

3. Is NYSC compulsory for DSSC/SSC?

Yes, a discharge or exemption certificate is mandatory.

4. When is recruitment usually open?

DSSC/SSC: First or last quarter of the year
NDA: Usually between October and March

5. Can I apply to more than one route at once?

No. You can only apply to one route at a time.

Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Army in 2025 through DSSC, SSC, or NDA is now easier than ever — thanks to digital applications and clearer guidelines.

To succeed:

• Choose the right entry route

• Gather all necessary documents early

• Regularly check the official portals

• Avoid fake agents or scammers

Ready to serve your country with pride? Start your application today and become part of Nigeria’s proud military tradition.