Nigerian Army Commences Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026 Recruitment

The Nigerian Army has formally announced the commencement of applications for its Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026. The recruitment drive, which seeks to bolster the officer cadre with specialized professional skills, will open on January 7, 2026, and conclude on February 4, 2026. This announcement was disseminated through the Army’s official communication channels, including its X (formerly Twitter) account.

The DSSC scheme is a critical pathway for integrating qualified civilians and serving military personnel into officer roles across various technical and support corps. The Army emphasizes that the program is designed to enhance operational effectiveness by recruiting individuals with high-level competencies in engineering, technology, and other professional fields. This strategic focus on specialized skills is essential for modern military functions, much like the operational resilience demonstrated when Overland Airways resumes flights after logistical reviews or the strategic importance seen in Chinese investments lithium mining ventures for national resources.

Applications are free and must be submitted exclusively through the Nigerian Army’s online portal. Eligibility criteria are stringent, requiring Nigerian citizenship, an age range of 20 to 32 years by March 30, 2026 (with an extension to 40 for medical consultants), and specific physical, medical, and educational standards. Academic prerequisites include a minimum of a Second Class Upper degree or Upper Credit HND in specified disciplines, with mandatory registration with relevant professional bodies like COREN and NSE for engineering fields. All candidates must have completed the National Youth Service Corps program or obtained an exemption certificate.

The Nigerian Army’s structured approach to this recruitment underscores its commitment to professionalism and merit. The process is selective, with clear guidelines stating that serving personnel must have been formally sponsored for civilian education by the Armed Forces to qualify. This meticulous selection aims to build a capable officer corps, a priority that resonates when the COAS hails troops for their dedication or when the nation addresses security challenges such as after bandits attack Kwara communities. The commitment to structured development and national service is a constant, reflecting the same solemnity with which President Tinubu condoles Abba and other communities in times of loss.

Prospective applicants are advised to prepare all necessary documentation, including birth certificates, state-of-origin certificates, and academic credentials, well in advance of the application window. The Army has reiterated that the process is entirely online and free of charge, warning against any fraudulent practices.