Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Recruitment 2025/2026

Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Recruitment 2025/2026

The Nigerian Army has officially announced the commencement of its Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Recruitment 2025/2026. This is a golden opportunity for patriotic Nigerians who wish to serve their country through a professional military career. The recruitment exercise is open to both civilians and currently serving military personnel with the required qualifications.

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This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the ongoing Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Commission recruitment — including eligibility criteria, educational qualifications, application procedures, and conditions of service.

About the Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC)

The Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) is a special enlistment program of the Nigerian Army designed to recruit qualified graduates as combatant officers. Officers commissioned through this scheme are trained for a short service period and deployed to serve mainly in the combat and combat support arms of the Nigerian Army, such as:

• Infantry Corps
• Armour Corps
• Artillery Corps
• Engineers Corps
• Signals Corps
• Intelligence Corps

Successful applicants undergo intensive military training at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or any other approved military institution. Upon completion, they are commissioned as Second Lieutenants and posted to different units within the Nigerian Army.

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A Brief History of the Nigerian Army

The history of the Nigerian Army can be traced back to 1863 when Lieutenant John Glover of the Royal Navy formed a small local military force known as the “Glover Hausas.” This unit was initially created to protect British trade interests and maintain peace in the Lagos hinterland. Over the decades, this small group evolved into a modern, structured military organization — the Nigerian Army we know today.

Today, the Nigerian Army stands as a key component of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, responsible for defending the nation’s territorial integrity, maintaining peace, and supporting civil authorities when necessary.

General Requirements for the Nigerian Army SSCC Recruitment 2025/2026

Before applying for the Short Service Combatant Commission recruitment, all applicants must ensure they meet the following basic requirements:

>Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth as defined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

>Must be between the ages of 23 and 27 years by January 9, 2026.

>Must be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Nigerian Army standards.

>Minimum height requirement: 1.68m (male) and 1.65m (female).

>Must possess a good moral character and not have been convicted by any court of law.

>Must not have any body tattoos or inscriptions.

Must not be a member of any cult, secret society, or fraternity.

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Educational and Professional Qualifications

1. Applicants must possess a First Degree (minimum of Second Class Lower Division) or a Higher National Diploma (minimum of Lower Credit) from an accredited institution.

2. Courses of study must be accredited at the time of study.

3. Applicants must have graduated between 2017 and 2025.

4. Must possess a valid NYSC discharge certificate or a certificate of exemption.

5. Must provide original copies of all academic credentials (from primary to tertiary levels).

6. Must submit a Letter of Attestation from former institutions attended.

Character and Recommendation Requirements

1. Each civilian applicant must be recommended by at least two reputable referees who can vouch for their character. These referees may include:

2. A Local Government Chairman or Secretary

3. An officer of the Armed Forces not below the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (or equivalent)

4. An Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)

5. Each referee must attach a recent passport photograph to the letter of attestation. Applicants are also required to provide valid contact addresses and phone numbers of parents, guardians, or next of kin.

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Special Requirements for Serving Military Personnel

1. Must present a valid military identity card.

2. Must provide letters of recommendation from Commanding Officers/Commanders.

3. Must have served in the Armed Forces of Nigeria for a minimum of five (5) years.

4. Must declare their service status in line with the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Conditions of Service for Short Service Combatant Officers

>The Short Service Combatant Commission is granted for a total of 15 years — 10 years active service and a renewable period of 5 years.

>After the 15-year tenure, extension is only possible through conversion to a Regular Combatant Commission (based on availability and merit).

>Officer cadets who successfully complete the program will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants with seniority from the date of training commencement.

>All cadets must sign an acceptance form confirming their agreement to the service terms before being commissioned.

The reckonable service period for civilian applicants begins from the date of cadet training, while that of serving personnel is based on their enlistment date.

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How to Apply for Nigerian Army SSCC Recruitment 2025/2026

Interested and qualified candidates should follow the steps below to submit their applications successfully:

Visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal at https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.

Click on “Apply for Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC)” to begin your application.

Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and educational details.

Upload your academic credentials, passport photograph, birth certificate, and certificate of origin.

Submit your application and print out the acknowledgment slip for reference.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a written examination, physical screening, and medical test at designated centers nationwide.

Note: Multiple applications will lead to disqualification. Ensure that all documents uploaded are genuine and verifiable.

Key Takeaways

• The SSCC recruitment is open to both civilians and serving military personnel.
• Application is 100% free — avoid fraudsters or fake websites.
• All applicants must apply via the official recruitment portal only.
• Training for successful candidates will take place at the Nigerian Defence Academy or any other approved institution.

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FAQs about Nigerian Army SSCC Recruitment 2025/2026

Conclusion

The Nigerian Army Short Service Combatant Commission Recruitment 2025/2026 provides a unique opportunity for young Nigerians with leadership potential to build a meaningful military career. If you meet the eligibility criteria, now is the best time to begin your application and take the first step toward serving your nation.

To start your registration, visit the official portal below:

 APPLY NOW

Written by  Bestexamhub.com.ng – Your No.1 Source for Nigerian Education, Recruitment, and Exam Updates.

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