The Nigerian Army has officially commenced applications for the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 49/2026, inviting qualified and patriotic Nigerians to apply for commission as officers in one of the nation’s most respected military institutions.
In an announcement released by the Army authorities, the online registration portal opened on Thursday, October 9, 2025, and will remain active until Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Application Open to Civilians and Serving Personnel
The recruitment exercise is open to both serving members of the Armed Forces — including soldiers, ratings, and airmen — as well as civilian applicants who meet the required standards set by the Nigerian Army.
According to the statement, the Short Service Combatant Commission provides an opportunity for individuals who aspire to serve Nigeria through a short-term professional military career.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens by birth.
- Be between 23 and 27 years old as of January 9, 2026.
- Meet the Army’s standards of medical, mental, and physical fitness.
- Present a Letter of Attestation from former educational institutions.
- Have no criminal convictions or pending disciplinary issues.
For Civilian Applicants
Civilian candidates must submit two letters of attestation from reputable Nigerians — such as a Local Government Chairman or Secretary, or a senior military or police officer not below the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or Assistant Commissioner of Police.
They must also:
- Be at least 1.68 metres (male) or 1.65 metres (female) in height.
- Hold a minimum of a First Degree (Second Class Lower) or HND (Lower Credit) obtained from a recognised institution not earlier than 2017.
- Possess a valid birth certificate or age declaration and a certificate of state of origin.
- Provide a NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
- Include the contact details of parents, guardians, and next of kin.
Applicants are also warned against having tattoos or body inscriptions, as such are strictly prohibited.
For Serving Military Personnel
Serving members of the Armed Forces must:
- Have completed at least five years of service.
- Present a valid military ID card.
- Submit recommendation letters endorsed by their commanding officers.
Additionally, all applicants must ensure that they are not members of any cult, secret society, or fraternity, and must not have been dismissed or withdrawn from any military or paramilitary organisation.
Conditions of Service
Successful candidates will undergo training and, upon completion, will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the Nigerian Army. Their seniority will be calculated from the commencement date of the training.
The Short Service Combatant Commission runs for 15 years, consisting of an initial 10-year active service period, with the possibility of a 5-year extension upon satisfactory performance.
According to the Army, “SSCC officers may be allowed to convert to the Regular Combatant Commission (RCC), subject to vacancy and the fulfilment of required conditions.”
All officer cadets admitted into the course will sign an acceptance form indicating their consent to the terms and conditions before commissioning.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are to submit their applications online via the official recruitment portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.
Application Steps
- Visit the official recruitment portal.
- Select the “SSC” option.
- Review the conditions of entry for SSCC Course 49/2026.
- Click “Apply Now” under the SSC 49/2026 section.
- Indicate if you are currently serving or have previously served in the Armed Forces.
- New users should click “Sign Up” to create an account (a verification link will be sent to the registered email).
- Log in and complete the application form.
- Upload all required documents.
Documents to Upload
- Recent passport photograph
- Educational certificates (primary to tertiary)
- Certificate of state of origin
- Birth certificate or age declaration
For inquiries or technical assistance, candidates can reach the Army via 08179269294 or 08109999294, available daily between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
A Call to Service
The Nigerian Army urged all eligible Nigerians to seize this opportunity to serve their country, describing the SSCC Course 49/2026 as a pathway to leadership, discipline, and professional growth within the military.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in recruiting qualified, patriotic, and competent officers who are committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and advancing national unity,” the statement concluded.
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