The Nigerian Army has officially opened applications for its Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49/2026, inviting qualified Nigerians who aspire to serve their country as commissioned officers.
If you’ve ever dreamed of building a career in the military, this is your opportunity to apply and join one of Africa’s most respected armed forces.
Contents
Application Period
Opening Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
Closing Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Applications are open to both serving military personnel and qualified civilians who meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SSCC 49/2026 recruitment, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Basic Requirements
- Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
- Age between 23 and 27 years by January 9, 2026.
- Must be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Army standards.
- Must have no criminal convictions or ongoing disciplinary cases.
- Must not belong to any cult, secret society, or fraternity.
- Must not have been dismissed or withdrawn from any military or paramilitary training institution.
Educational Qualifications
- A First Degree (Second Class Lower) or HND (Lower Credit) from an accredited institution, obtained between 2017 and 2025.
- Non-military applicants must present an NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
- Must provide original copies of all educational certificates (from primary to tertiary level).
Additional Documents
Applicants are required to upload or submit the following:
- Recent passport photograph
- Educational certificates
- Certificate of state of origin
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Letter of Attestation from educational institutions
- Two referees’ letters of attestation from reputable Nigerians such as a Local Government Chairman/Secretary or senior military/police officer of at least Lieutenant Colonel or Assistant Commissioner of Police rank
- Valid contact details of parents/guardians and next of kin
Physical Standards
- Minimum height: 1.68m (males), 1.65m (females)
- No tattoos or body inscriptions allowed
For Serving Personnel
- Must have served at least 5 years in the military.
- Must present a valid military ID card and recommendation letters from commanding officers.
- Must truthfully declare service status during application.
Conditions of Service
Successful candidates who complete training will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants, with seniority counted from the date training begins.
The Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) runs for 15 years, including 10 years of active service and a renewable 5-year extension.
Qualified officers may later convert to the Regular Combatant Commission (RCC) based on available vacancies and Army requirements.
All selected cadets must sign an acceptance of the terms and conditions before commissioning.
How to Apply for Nigerian Army SSCC 49/2026
Follow the steps below to submit your application successfully:
- Visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal at recruitment.army.mil.ng.
- Select the “SSC” option.
- Carefully read the conditions of entry for the SSCC Course 49/2026.
- Click “Apply Now” under SSC 49/2026 according to your qualification.
- Indicate whether you are currently serving or a civilian applicant.
- If you are new, click “Sign Up” to create an account (a verification link will be sent to your email).
- Log in with your credentials to complete the application form.
- Upload all required documents before submitting your form.
Final Thoughts
The Nigerian Army SSCC 49/2026 recruitment offers a golden opportunity for passionate Nigerians to serve their nation with honor and discipline.
Ensure you meet all the requirements, double-check your documents, and submit your application before the November 12 deadline.
Start your journey toward becoming a commissioned officer today — visit recruitment.army.mil.ng and apply now.
