Difference Between DSSC and SSC in the Nigerian Army

Difference Between DSSC and SSC in the Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army offers different types of commissions for individuals who wish to serve as officers. Two of the most common ones are the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) and the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC). Although both are “short service” programs and share some similarities, they are fundamentally different in purpose, training, and career path.

This article explains in detail the major differences between DSSC and SSC in the Nigerian Army, as well as their requirements, roles, and benefits.

1. Meaning of DSSC and SSC

• DSSC (Direct Short Service Commission):
  This commission is mainly for graduates and professionals who want to join the Army as specialists — for example, doctors, engineers, lawyers, and other experts. It focuses more on professional and administrative duties rather than direct combat roles.
• SSC (Short Service Combatant Commission):
  The SSC is designed for graduates who want to serve as combatant officers. These officers are trained primarily for military command, combat, and field leadership, rather than professional or technical roles.

2. Duration of Service

• DSSC: The DSSC typically runs for 10 years, but it can be extended depending on performance and the needs of the Army. In many cases, DSSC officers can be converted to Regular Commission officers if recommended.
• SSC: The SSC usually runs for 15 years — 10 years as a Short Service officer and an optional additional 5 years based on performance and promotion. However, the SSC is more combat-focused and not often converted to Regular Commission unless under special consideration.

3. Nature of Training

• DSSC:
  Training for DSSC officers is shorter, usually 6 to 9 months, and focuses on military orientation, leadership, and discipline, rather than full combat training. It takes place at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji, Kaduna.
• SSC:
  SSC officers undergo longer and more rigorous military training, usually lasting about 9 to 12 months, focusing heavily on combat tactics, field command, and physical endurance. The training is similar to that of Regular Combatant officers but more condensed.

4. Entry Requirements

• DSSC Requirements:
  • Must possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or HND in a relevant professional field.
  • Must have completed NYSC and possess a discharge or exemption certificate.
  • Must be a professional in a particular area (e.g., Medicine, Law, Engineering, ICT, etc.).
  • Age limit: 22–35 years (profession-dependent).
• SSC Requirements:
  • Must hold a Bachelor’s degree or HND in any discipline (no professional license required).
  • Must have completed NYSC.
  • Focuses more on those interested in combat or leadership roles.
  • Age limit: 22–30 years.

5. Role and Function

• DSSC Officers:
  These officers perform specialized and administrative duties. For instance, a DSSC doctor will work in the Army Medical Corps, a lawyer in the Legal Services Department, and an engineer in the Engineering Corps. Their roles are mainly to support combat troops through technical expertise.
• SSC Officers:
  These officers are combat leaders who command troops in the field, plan and execute military operations, and may be deployed for peacekeeping or war missions. Their primary responsibility is fighting and commanding soldiers.

6. Rank Upon Commissioning

Both DSSC and SSC officers are commissioned as Lieutenants upon completion of training. However, there is a small distinction in their career paths:

• DSSC: Starts as Lieutenant, but promotion depends on years of service and professional performance. They are more likely to remain in technical departments.
• SSC: Also starts as Lieutenant, but can advance through combat ranks (Captain, Major, etc.) depending on field performance and command potential.

7. Possibility of Conversion to Regular Commission

• DSSC:
  DSSC officers can sometimes be converted to Regular Commission (RC) after a few years, particularly if their service is outstanding and the Army requires their skills permanently.
• SSC:
  SSC officers are rarely converted to Regular Commission, though some exceptional cases exist, especially for officers who perform excellently in command and field operations.

8. Career Path and Retirement

• DSSC:
  Since the DSSC is for professionals, most officers may retire after their short service period unless converted. Their promotions are more professionally based than combat-based.
• SSC:
  SSC officers are more involved in combat and command duties, and their career advancement is tied to military performance, discipline, and leadership.

9. Salary and Benefits

Both DSSC and SSC officers enjoy similar salaries at the same rank level, though DSSC officers may receive extra allowances based on their professional field (for example, medical or engineering allowance).

• Lieutenant (DSSC/SSC) – Around ₦180,000–₦220,000 monthly
• Captain (DSSC/SSC) – Around ₦250,000–₦300,000 monthly
• Major (DSSC/SSC) – Around ₦350,000–₦450,000 monthly

Other benefits include:

• Housing allowance or official accommodation
• Uniform and maintenance allowance
• Medical care for officer and family
• Pension and gratuity after service

10. Summary of Key Differences

Final Thoughts

Both DSSC and SSC offer rewarding paths into the Nigerian Army, but your choice depends on your educational background and career goals.
If you’re a professional (doctor, lawyer, engineer, or specialist), the DSSC is the right path.
However, if you’re a graduate interested in military leadership and combat, the SSC is your best option.

Both routes serve the same noble purpose — defending and serving Nigeria with honor and dedication.