Do you dream of serving in the Nigerian Army? Whether you want to join as a professional through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), pursue military education via the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), or enlist through the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC), this official guide will help you understand the process easily.

In 2025, the Nigerian Army has streamlined recruitment and made applications more accessible online. Let’s explore how to join successfully.

3 Major Ways to Join the Nigerian Army

1. Join Through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)

The NDA is Nigeria’s premier military university, offering a 5-year degree + military training.

Basic Requirements

• Must be Nigerian by birth

• Age: 17–21 years old (male or female)

• Must have minimum 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB, including English and Mathematics

• JAMB score must meet NDA cut-off (usually around 180–210 depending on course)

• Must pass medical, physical & written exams

Available Courses

• Engineering, Military Science, Cybersecurity, Political Science, Psychology, etc.

How to Apply

1. Visit www.nda.edu.ng

2. Purchase NDA application form (costs around ₦3,500)

3. Apply online, upload documents

4. Write JAMB and NDA entrance exams

5. Attend screening & selection interviews at Kaduna NDA HQ

2. Join Through Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC)

The SSC is for university graduates who want to serve as combat officers for 10 years (renewable).

Requirements

• Nigerian citizen, age 23–27 years

• Bachelor's degree (minimum Second Class Lower) or HND (Upper Credit)

• Physically and medically fit

• No criminal record

• Height: Minimum 1.68m (men), 1.65m (women)

SSC Training

• 6–9 months of military training at the Nigerian Army School, Jaji (Kaduna)

• Commissioned as Second Lieutenant

How to Apply

1. Go to recruitment.army.mil.ng

2. Select SSC Application

3. Fill online form and upload necessary credentials

4. Print slip for screening

3. Join Through Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)

DSSC is for professionals (Doctors, Nurses, Lawyers, Engineers, ICT, etc.) who wish to serve in non-combat roles.

Requirements

• Age: 28–35 years

• Must be a graduate in a specific profession

• NYSC discharge certificate (or exemption)

• Valid professional licenses (e.g., NMC, NBA, MDCN)

• Physically and medically fit

Professions Accepted

How to Apply

1. Visit recruitment.army.mil.ng

2. Select DSSC Application

3. Register and complete your profile

4. Upload relevant certificates and documents

5. Wait for shortlist and attend physical screening

Required Documents (All Routes)

• Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age

• State of Origin Certificate

• NYSC certificate (for graduates)

• Degree or SSCE certificates

• Passport photographs

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

Comparison Table – NDA vs SSC vs DSSC

FAQs – How to Join Nigerian Army (2025)

1. Is the Nigerian Army recruitment free?

Yes. The Nigerian Army does not charge any fee for applying. Avoid scammers asking for payment.

2. Can I join the Nigerian Army without a degree?

Yes. You can apply through NDA (with SSCE) or wait for Tradesmen/Women & Non-Trades Recruitment.

3. Can females apply?

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

4. What is the rank after NDA or SSC/DSSC?

Graduates from NDA become Second Lieutenants. DSSC professionals are often commissioned as Lieutenants.

5. When is Nigerian Army recruitment done?

Recruitment windows vary, but usually open in the first or last quarter of the year. Always check the official portal for updates.

Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Army is a prestigious and rewarding career path. Whether through NDA, SSC, or DSSC, every path offers an opportunity to serve Nigeria and build a career with honor and discipline.

To succeed:

• Prepare all documents early

• Stay physically fit

• Watch out for official announcements only

• Avoid fraudsters