Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment 2025/2026 Portal | Application Form and How to Apply: Learn everything about the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment 2025/2026. Find details on eligibility, application form, requirements, and step-by-step guide to apply online for the Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Course.
The Nigerian Army has officially opened its portal for the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) 49/2026 Recruitment Exercise for the 2025/2026 session. This announcement has created excitement among young Nigerians aspiring to serve their nation as commissioned officers.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to join the Nigerian Army, this is your chance. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 recruitment — including eligibility requirements, how to apply, key dates, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Overview of the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment
The Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) is one of the key commissioning programs in the Nigerian Army designed for eligible civilians and serving military personnel who wish to become officers. The SSC is typically a shorter route compared to the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), focusing more on combat-related duties.
Successful applicants are trained at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, and upon completion, are commissioned as officers in the Nigerian Army. The training usually lasts less than a year and prepares candidates for leadership and operational roles in various army formations.
Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment Portal
The official recruitment portal for the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 is www.army.mil.ng. All applications and important updates about the recruitment will be published there.
Candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications only through the official portal to avoid falling victim to fraud or unofficial sites.
General Requirements for the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026
To be eligible for the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be between 23 and 27 years by the time of commissioning.
- Marital Status: Only single male and female candidates are eligible to apply.
- Height Requirement:
- Male candidates: Minimum of 1.68 meters
- Female candidates: Minimum of 1.65 meters
- Medical Fitness: Applicants must be physically and medically fit in accordance with the Nigerian Army standards.
- Character: Candidates must be of good moral character and must not have been convicted of any criminal offense.
- Educational Qualification:
- Applicants must possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc, B.A, B.Ed, B.Eng, or equivalent) from a recognized university.
- NYSC discharge certificate or exemption letter is mandatory.
- Professional Qualifications:
Additional professional certifications in fields like Medicine, Engineering, Law, and ICT are an added advantage.
How to Apply for Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment
Follow these steps carefully to complete your application for the SSC 49/2026:
- Visit the official portal: Go to www.army.mil.ng and click on “Apply for SSC 49/2026.”
- Create an account: Register with a valid email address and phone number.
- Complete your profile: Fill in your personal information, academic qualifications, and upload your credentials.
- Print out necessary forms: After submitting your application, print out the following documents:
- Acknowledgment Slip
- Application Form
- Attestation Form (to be signed by a reputable person such as a Local Government Chairman or a Military Officer)
- Submit at the screening venue: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email or SMS for screening and interview.
Ensure you double-check your application for errors before submitting. Any false information discovered later will automatically disqualify you.
Important Dates and Screening Information
The recruitment process will run in several stages:
- Online Application Period: Expected to open in November 2025 and close in January 2026.
- Shortlist Announcement: Shortlisted candidates will be published on the Nigerian Army recruitment portal and notified via email.
- Screening Exercise: Physical screening and interviews will take place at the Nigerian Army Selection Board, usually at NDA Kaduna.
- Training Commencement: Successful candidates will begin training in mid-2026 at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
Applicants are encouraged to stay alert and frequently visit the official portal for updates regarding the screening date and venue.
Key Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early: Avoid waiting until the last day of the application to prevent server congestion.
- Prepare your documents: Make sure all credentials (birth certificate, degree, NYSC certificate, etc.) are scanned clearly.
- Meet physical standards: Keep fit and healthy since the screening includes medical and physical fitness tests.
- Avoid multiple applications: Submitting more than one application can lead to automatic disqualification.
- Stay updated: Follow verified Nigerian Army channels for official updates.
Why Join the Nigerian Army?
Joining the Nigerian Army through the SSC offers a unique opportunity to serve your country while developing leadership, discipline, and a sense of duty. It’s not just a career path—it’s a call to contribute to national peace and security.
In addition, successful officers enjoy benefits such as:
- Competitive salaries and allowances
- Pension and welfare packages
- Opportunities for international peacekeeping missions
- Access to further military and academic training
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the difference between DSSC and SSC in the Nigerian Army?
The DSSC is for professionals like doctors, engineers, and lawyers, while the SSC focuses more on combat roles. SSC officers serve for a limited period before being considered for conversion to a Regular Commission based on performance. - When will the Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 recruitment close?
The portal is expected to close in January 2026, but candidates are advised to apply early to avoid missing the deadline. - Can married applicants apply for SSC 49/2026?
No. Only unmarried applicants are allowed to participate in this recruitment exercise. - What is the training duration for SSC officers?
The training usually lasts for about 9 to 12 months at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. - How will I know if I am shortlisted?
Successful candidates will be notified via the official portal, email, or SMS. The list will also be published on the Nigerian Army website.
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Final Thoughts
The Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026 Recruitment 2025/2026 offers a golden opportunity for qualified Nigerians to serve their country as commissioned officers. If you meet the requirements, now is the perfect time to apply and begin your journey into one of the most respected institutions in Africa.
Before applying, take time to review all guidelines, ensure your documents are in order, and apply only through the official portal. The Nigerian Army is seeking dedicated, disciplined, and patriotic individuals ready to defend and uphold the nation’s integrity.