APPLICATION FOR NIGERIAN ARMY SHORT SERVICE COMBATANT COURSE 49/2026 IS STILL ONGOING!

If you’re a patriotic Nigerian looking to serve your country with honor and courage, now is your chance! The Nigerian Army has opened applications for the Short Service Combatant (SSC) Commission Course 49/2026. This is an excellent opportunity for qualified civilians and serving military personnel to join the ranks as commissioned officers in the Combat Arms or Combat Support Arms.
Follow the steps below to apply and take that bold step to serve your fatherland.

Key Dates:

• Application Opens: Thursday, 9 October 2025
• Application Closes: Wednesday, 12 November 2025

With the deadline approaching, don’t delay—apply today!

What is the Short Service Combatant Commission?

The SSC is a commission into the Nigerian Army as officers, primarily serving in Combat Arms (Infantry and Armour Corps) and Combat Support Arms (Artillery, Engineers, Signals, and Intelligence Corps). Successful applicants undergo military training and serve for an initial period of 10 years, extendable by 5 years, totaling 15 years. Conversion to a Regular Combatant Commission is possible based on vacancies and performance, but not automatic.

Upon completion of training at the Nigerian Defence Academy, cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants with seniority effective from the training start date.

Eligibility Criteria for SSC 49/2026

To apply, you must meet strict requirements to ensure only the best candidates are selected. The program is open to both civilians and serving soldiers, ratings, or airmen.

General Requirements

• Be a Nigerian citizen by birth as per the 1999 Constitution.
• Age between 23 and 27 years by January 9, 2026.
• Medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Nigerian Army standards.
• Minimum height: 1.68m for males and 1.65m for females.
• No prior convictions or disciplinary cases.
• No body inscriptions or tattoos.
• Not a member of any cult, secret society, or fraternity.

Educational and Other Qualifications

• Possess at least a first degree (minimum Second Class Lower Division) or HND (minimum Lower Credit) in arts, sciences, or humanities from an accredited institution. Credentials must be from 2017 onward.
• Valid NYSC discharge or exemption certificate (for civilians).
• Valid birth certificate or age declaration, certificate of state of origin, NIN, and BVN.
• Civilian applicants need letters of attestation from two referees (e.g., Local Government Chairman or a senior military officer from your state of origin).
• Serving personnel must have at least 5 years of service, a letter of sponsorship from their commander, and declare their service status.

How to Apply for Nigerian Army SSC 49/2026

The application is completely online and free of charge. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth process: [](grok_render_citation_card_json={“cardIds”:[“d34ee9”]})

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng/ and select the SSC option.
2. You’ll be redirected to the SSC Course 49/2026 page. Read the conditions of entry carefully.
3. Click on “Apply Now” based on your qualification (civilian or serving personnel).
4. Indicate if you are currently serving or have served in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
5. If you don’t have an account, click “Sign Up” (a verification email will be sent). If you have one, log in.
6. Fill out the online form and upload the required documents:
   • Recent passport photograph
   • Educational certificates
   • Certificate of state of origin
   • Birth certificate or age declaration
   • NIN and BVN slips
7. Upon completion, print your photo-slip. Have the first page signed by a Court Registrar and the second by your Local Government Chairman/Secretary or a military officer (Lieutenant Colonel or equivalent) from your state of origin.
8. Bring these documents to the selection board interview if shortlisted.

Note: All applications must be submitted by November 12, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Why Join the Nigerian Army Through SSC?

Joining the Nigerian Army offers a fulfilling career defending your nation, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact. As an SSC officer, you’ll receive rigorous training, competitive benefits, and opportunities for advancement. It’s not just a job—it’s a calling to serve with pride and integrity.

Important Tips and Inquiries

Ensure all information is accurate to avoid disqualification. For further inquiries, contact 08179269294 or 08109959294 between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily.

Don’t miss this opportunity! Apply now and embark on a rewarding journey in the Nigerian Army.