The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of applications for its Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49/2026, inviting qualified Nigerians to apply and serve as commissioned officers.
According to a statement by the Army, the online application portal opened on Thursday, October 9, 2025, and will close on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
The exercise is open to both serving military personnel and eligible civilian applicants who meet the required criteria. Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth and aged between 23 and 27 years as of January 9, 2026.
Civilian candidates are required to submit letters of attestation from two reputable referees, such as a Local Government Chairman or Secretary, or a senior officer in the military or police not below the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or Assistant Commissioner of Police.
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The Army stated that successful candidates will undergo training before being commissioned to serve in combat and combat support roles within the Nigerian Army.
Basic Requirements
Applicants must:
Be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Army standards.
Provide two attestation letters from recognized officials.
Submit a letter of attestation from their educational institutions.
Meet the minimum height requirement of 1.68m (male) or 1.65m (female).
Have no criminal record or disciplinary case; serving personnel must provide an endorsement from their commanding officers.
Hold at least a first degree with a minimum of Second Class Lower or an HND with Lower Credit obtained between 2017 and the present.
Present valid birth certificate or age declaration and certificate of state of origin.
For non-military applicants, possess a valid NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
Provide verifiable contact details of parents, guardians, and next of kin.
Have no tattoos, body inscriptions, or membership in cults, secret societies, or fraternities.
Present original copies of all educational credentials from primary to tertiary levels.
Serving personnel must have completed a minimum of five years in service, present valid military identification and recommendation letters, and accurately declare their service status.
Must not have been dismissed or withdrawn from any military or paramilitary training institution.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are to visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal at recruitment.army.mil.ng
and select the SSC option.
Applicants should review the conditions for the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49/2026, then click “Apply Now” under the SSC 49/2026 section corresponding to their qualifications.
Candidates must indicate whether they are serving or have previously served in the Armed Forces of Nigeria. New users should click “Sign Up” to create an account, verify their email, and log in using their credentials to complete the application process.
