THIS DAWN — The Nigerian Army has officially announced the commencement of applications for its Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026, inviting eligible Nigerians—both civilians and serving military personnel—to apply for commission into various specialized corps.
The application window opens on January 7, 2026, and closes on February 4, 2026, with all submissions to be made online.
Corps Available for DSSC Entry
The DSSC program offers opportunities to join the Nigerian Army in technical and professional capacities across five key corps:
- Nigerian Army Engineers
- Nigerian Army Signals
- Nigerian Army Medical Corps
- Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
- Nigerian Army Education Corps
These corps play critical roles in supporting the operational and administrative functions of the Army, and the DSSC pathway allows qualified individuals to contribute their expertise while serving the nation.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet the following general conditions:
- Be Nigerian citizens by birth and possess a valid means of identification.
- Be between 20 and 30 years old by March 30, 2026. Medical consultants may apply up to age 40.
- Be medically and physically fit according to Nigerian Army standards.
- Possess a minimum of a Second Class Lower (2.2) degree or Lower Credit in HND from recognized institutions.
- Provide evidence of membership in relevant professional bodies (where applicable).
- Present valid birth certificates, certificates of state of origin, and National Identification Number (NIN).
- Applicants must not have any criminal convictions and must be free from any form of financial embarrassment.
- Tattoos, body inscriptions, and drug use are disqualifying factors.
Serving military personnel sponsored to civil institutions by any branch of the Nigerian Armed Forces may also apply.
Corps-Specific Qualifications
Each corps has additional academic and professional requirements:
- Engineers: Degrees in Civil, Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering fields.
- Signals: Qualifications in Telecommunications, Computer Science, or Electronics.
- Medical Corps: MBBS, BDS, or equivalent medical degrees, with full registration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineers: Degrees in Mechatronics, Automotive Engineering, or related disciplines.
- Education Corps: Degrees in Education or relevant teaching fields, with proof of teaching experience or certification.
Conditions of Service
Successful candidates will be commissioned as officers and granted a DSSC tenure of 15 years, renewable based on performance and Army needs.
Officers may convert to Direct Regular Commission (DRC) after three years of service.
Medical consultants will be commissioned at the rank of Major, while other successful candidates will start at the rank of Lieutenant.
All officers will undergo a probationary period during their first three years of service.
Application Process
The application is free of charge and must be completed online. Steps include:
- Visit recruitment.army.mil.ng and select the DSSC option.
- Review the qualification criteria and choose your preferred corps.
- Click “Apply Now” and follow the prompts to create an account or log in.
- Complete the application form and upload required documents:
- Passport photograph
- Educational certificates
- Professional membership evidence
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Certificate of state of origin
- NIN/BVN
Applicants are advised to print out their completed forms and guarantor’s declaration for reference.
Support and Inquiries
For assistance, applicants may contact the Nigerian Army via the following helplines:
- 08179269294
- 08109959294
Lines are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the application period.
The DSSC Course 29/2026 offers a unique opportunity for skilled Nigerians to serve their country through professional military service.
With roles spanning engineering, medicine, education, and communications, the Nigerian Army is seeking candidates who are disciplined, qualified, and committed to national development.
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early, ensure all documents are complete, and prepare for a rigorous but rewarding selection process.
