Are you a graduate looking to join the Nigerian Army as an officer? The Nigerian Army offers two great career opportunities through its Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC) and Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) recruitment exercises.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — including how to access the official Nigerian Army SSC & DSSC recruitment portal, eligibility criteria, step-by-step application process, and key deadlines.

What Are SSC and DSSC in the Nigerian Army?

Short Service Combatant Commission (SSC)

The SSC is designed for graduates who want to serve as combatant officers. The service duration is typically 10 years, renewable based on performance.

Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC)

DSSC is for graduates with professional qualifications (doctors, engineers, lawyers, etc.) who want to serve in non-combatant roles like medical, legal, engineering, or education departments. It usually lasts for 15 years.

Nigerian Army SSC & DSSC Recruitment Portal

The only official portal for SSC and DSSC applications is:

https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

All applications must be submitted online through this platform.

When Will the Portal Open?

As of now, the 2025/2026 SSC & DSSC recruitment forms have not yet been released.

However, based on past recruitment cycles, applications usually open between July and September.

Check the portal regularly or bookmark this page for updates.

General Eligibility Requirements

To apply for either SSC or DSSC, candidates must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen by birth

• Be medically, physically, and mentally fit

• Be between the ages of:

                23–27 years for most SSC roles

                23–30 years for DSSC (depending on specialization)

• Hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or HND in a relevant field

• Possess an NYSC discharge or exemption certificate

• Not have any criminal record

Academic & Professional Requirements

Documents to Prepare Before Applying

• Passport photograph (recent, white background)

• First School Leaving Certificate

• WAEC/NECO/GCE result

• Degree or HND certificate

• NYSC discharge or exemption certificate

• Valid professional certificate (DSSC only)

• Birth certificate or age declaration

• Local Government of Origin certificate

• National ID / NIN

How to Apply via Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal

1. Visit the portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

2. Click on SSC or DSSC depending on your category

3. Read the application guidelines carefully

4. Register with a valid email and create a login

5. Fill in your details and upload required documents

6. Review and submit your application

7. Print out the Acknowledgment Slip and Photo Card

Application Deadline

The closing date for 2025/2026 SSC & DSSC recruitment will be announced once the portal opens.

Usually, applications stay open for 4 to 6 weeks.

What Happens After Submission?

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for:

• Preliminary screening

• Aptitude test

• Medical & physical fitness check

• Interview by selection board

Successful candidates will then proceed to the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI) for officer training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the Nigerian Army SSC/DSSC form for 2025 out?
A: Not yet. The form is expected to be released between July and September 2025.

Q2: Is the application free?
A: Yes. The recruitment form is 100% free. Do not pay anyone for a job slot.

Q3: Can I apply for both SSC and DSSC?
A: No. You must choose one that suits your qualifications.

Q4: Is NYSC certificate compulsory?
A: Yes. NYSC discharge or exemption is mandatory.

Q5: What is the training duration for SSC and DSSC?
A: SSC – about 9 months; DSSC – about 6 months.