How to Join the Nigerian Army as a Graduate

How to Join the Nigerian Army as a Graduate (2026 Guide)

Joining the Nigerian Army as a graduate is one of the most prestigious ways to serve the nation while building a disciplined and rewarding career. Unlike non-graduate recruitments (such as the Regular Recruit Intake), graduates are commissioned into the Army as officers through special entry schemes designed for degree and HND holders.

Below is a complete and updated guide on how to join the Nigerian Army as a graduate, including the requirements, recruitment process, ranks, and benefits.

1. Entry Options for Graduates

As a graduate, there are two major routes into the Nigerian Army:

A. Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)

The DSSC is for graduates who wish to join the Army as short-term commissioned officers.

• Duration of training: 6 to 9 months.
• After training, successful candidates are commissioned as Lieutenants.
• Officers serve for a specific period (usually 5 to 10 years) and may be given the option to convert to a permanent commission based on performance.

B. Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC)

The SSC is for graduates who want a combatant role (actively engaged in military operations).

• Duration of training: 9 to 12 months.
• Officers are commissioned as Second Lieutenants after training.
• Service duration is typically 10 years, but outstanding officers can be absorbed permanently.

2. Eligibility Requirements (2026)

To apply as a graduate, you must meet the following basic requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a Nigerian by birth.
• Age: Between 22 and 35 years (depending on the commission type).
• Marital Status: You must be single at the time of application.
• Education: Must possess a university degree (BSc, BA, BEng, or equivalent) or HND from a recognized institution.
• NYSC: Must have completed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or possess a valid exemption certificate.
• Character: Must be of good moral standing with no criminal record.
• Physical Fitness: Must meet the Nigerian Army’s medical and physical fitness standards.
• Height Requirement: Minimum height of 1.68 meters for males and 1.65 meters for females.

3. Disciplines and Specializations Accepted

The Nigerian Army DSSC/SSC accepts applications from candidates in various fields such as:

• Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.)
• Medicine and Health Sciences (Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists)
• Law (Legal Officers)
• Education (Teachers and Instructors)
• ICT and Computer Science
• Finance, Accounting, and Business Administration
• Mass Communication, Journalism, and Public Relations
• Intelligence and Security Studies
• Languages and International Relations

Your qualification determines your posting, duties, and career progression.

4. How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal:
   The official portal for graduate recruitment is usually announced as www.army.mil.ng (under the “Recruitment” section).
2. Select the appropriate entry category — either DSSC or SSC.
3. Complete the online application form:
   • Fill in your personal details carefully.
   • Upload recent passport photographs and scanned copies of your degree, NYSC certificate, and other credentials.
4. Print out the required forms:
   • Guarantor Form
   • Declaration Form
   • Local Government Identification
5. Submit your application before the closing date.
6. Attend the selection process:
   • Successful applicants will be shortlisted for Screening and Interview.
   • The screening usually includes physical fitness tests, medical exams, and academic verification.
7. Final Selection and Training:
   • Shortlisted candidates will proceed to the Nigerian Army Training School, typically at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, for officer cadet training.

5. Ranks for Graduate Entrants

After successful training, graduates are commissioned into officer ranks based on their commission type:

• DSSC Officers: Start as Lieutenant.
• SSC Officers: Start as Second Lieutenant.

Promotion depends on years of service, discipline, and performance. Dedicated officers can rise through the ranks to become Colonels, Brigadiers, or even Generals.

6. Salary and Benefits for Graduate Officers

Graduate officers in the Nigerian Army enjoy attractive salary packages and allowances.

Estimated Monthly Salary (2026):

• Second Lieutenant: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000
• Lieutenant: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000
• Captain: ₦350,000 – ₦400,000
• Major: ₦500,000 – ₦550,000

Allowances Include:

• Training and travel allowances
• Accommodation and uniform allowances
• Medical and feeding support
• Operational and hazard allowances
• Pension and retirement benefits

7. Why You Should Join the Nigerian Army as a Graduate

• Career Stability: Job security and long-term growth.
• Leadership Role: Graduates are trained to become commanding officers and decision-makers.
• Patriotism: Opportunity to serve and defend Nigeria.
• Training Opportunities: Access to both local and international military courses.
• Attractive Salary and Benefits: Competitive remuneration and allowances.

Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Army as a graduate offers not just a career but a life of service, discipline, and honour. Whether through the DSSC or SSC, graduates have the opportunity to contribute to national security while enjoying professional and financial growth.

If you have the passion, discipline, and courage to serve, prepare your documents, meet the requirements, and apply once the recruitment portal opens. The Nigerian Army offers more than a job—it offers a lifetime of purpose.