How to Join the Nigerian Navy as a Graduate

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

Joining the Nigerian Navy as a graduate is one of the most rewarding ways to serve the nation, gain leadership training, and build a prestigious career in the armed forces. Graduates are usually commissioned as officers through special entry programs that recognize their educational qualifications and professional backgrounds.

This guide explains everything you need to know about how to join the Nigerian Navy as a graduate in 2026 — including the available entry options, requirements, application process, ranks, and salary structure.

1. Entry Options for Graduates

There are two main ways for graduates to join the Nigerian Navy:

A. Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)

The DSSC is designed for graduates and professionals who want to serve in the Nigerian Navy for a specific period, usually between 5 and 10 years.

• Duration of training: 6 to 9 months.
• It is open to degree and HND holders.
• DSSC officers are commissioned directly as Sub-Lieutenants or Lieutenants, depending on qualification and specialization.

B. Regular Combatant Commission (through NDA)

This path is for those who want a full military career and wish to serve until retirement.

• Duration of training: 5 years (including academic and military training).
• Candidates are trained at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna.
• Upon graduation, cadets are commissioned as Sub-Lieutenants.
  However, this route is usually for younger applicants (17–21 years) who are fresh secondary school or first-year university students, not established graduates.

For graduates, the DSSC remains the primary route.

2. Basic Requirements for Graduate Entry (2026)

To qualify for the Nigerian Navy as a graduate, you must meet these general conditions:

• Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
• Age: Between 22 and 35 years, depending on specialization.
• Marital Status: Must be single at the time of application.
• Education: Must hold a BSc, BA, BEng, HND, or equivalent from a recognized institution.
• NYSC: Must have completed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or possess a valid exemption certificate.
• Character: Must be of good conduct with no criminal record.
• Health and Fitness: Must meet the Navy’s medical and physical standards.
• Height Requirement: At least 1.68 meters for males and 1.65 meters for females.

3. Disciplines and Specializations Needed

The Nigerian Navy DSSC recruitment is open to graduates from a wide range of academic and professional fields, including:

• Engineering (Marine, Electrical, Civil, Mechanical, Mechatronics)
• Medicine and Health Sciences (Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, Lab Scientists)
• Law
• Education
• ICT and Computer Science
• Accounting, Finance, and Business Administration
• Mass Communication and Public Relations
• Intelligence and Security Studies
• Navigation, Oceanography, and Maritime Studies

Your academic discipline determines which department or corps you’ll be posted to after training.

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

1. Visit the Nigerian Navy recruitment portal:
   Go to the official website (typically announced as www.joinnigeriannavy.com during recruitment periods).
2. Choose “Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)” as your entry category.
3. Complete the online application form:
   • Fill in your personal, educational, and contact details.
   • Upload scanned copies of your academic certificates, NYSC certificate, and passport photograph.
4. Print out your application documents:
   • Guarantor’s Form
   • Parent/Guardian Consent Form
   • Local Government Identification
5. Submit the application and wait for the shortlist announcement.
6. Attend the Aptitude Test/Screening:
   Shortlisted candidates will be invited for exams and medical screening at designated centers nationwide.
7. Final Selection and Training:
   Successful candidates will proceed to the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS), Onne or Lagos, for 6–9 months of military and leadership training before commissioning.

5. Rank and Salary for Graduate Entrants

Graduates who join through DSSC are commissioned into officer ranks based on their qualifications.

Entry Rank:

• Most graduates are commissioned as Sub-Lieutenants.
• Medical doctors, engineers, and lawyers may start as Lieutenants.

Estimated Monthly Salary (2026):

• Sub-Lieutenant: ₦250,000 – ₦300,000
• Lieutenant: ₦350,000 – ₦400,000
• Lieutenant Commander: ₦450,000 – ₦600,000
• Commander: ₦700,000 – ₦900,000
• Captain: ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,200,000

6. Allowances and Benefits

Nigerian Navy officers enjoy numerous allowances and welfare packages in addition to their monthly salaries. Some include:

• Uniform Allowance
• Housing Allowance
• Transport Allowance
• Medical Care (for officer and family)
• Operational Allowance
• Special Duty Allowance
• Pension and Gratuity after service
• Foreign Mission Allowance (for officers posted abroad)

7. Training Duration and Life in the Navy

DSSC cadets undergo intensive training that covers:

• Military drills and discipline
• Leadership and command techniques
• Physical fitness
• Weapon handling and naval operations
• Maritime security and navigation

Training lasts about 6 to 9 months. After commissioning, officers are posted to naval bases or specialized departments across Nigeria.

8. Why You Should Join the Nigerian Navy as a Graduate

• Professional Growth: Opportunities for advanced military and academic training.
• National Service: Serve with pride and contribute to maritime security.
• Attractive Pay: Competitive salary and multiple allowances.
• Job Security: Stable and respected government employment.
• International Exposure: Chance to train abroad and participate in peacekeeping missions.

Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Navy as a graduate through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) gives you the opportunity to serve your country with dignity while enjoying a stable and fulfilling career.

Once you meet the qualifications and requirements, prepare your documents and apply when the portal opens. With dedication, discipline, and passion, you can rise through the ranks to become one of the Navy’s finest officers, protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters with honour.