Nigerian Army DSSC Course 29/2026 Application Now Open: Requirements, Eligible Professionals, and How to Apply

The Nigerian Army has officially opened its online recruitment portal for the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026, offering qualified Nigerians a unique opportunity to serve the country as commissioned officers. This recruitment exercise is designed for professionals with specialized skills who are willing to contribute their expertise to national defense and security.

The DSSC pathway allows civilians and serving military personnel with relevant qualifications to join the Nigerian Army in a professional capacity. Successful candidates will undergo military training and, upon completion, will be commissioned into appropriate ranks based on their qualifications and professional background.

Understanding the DSSC Programme

The Direct Short Service Commission is a structured entry route into the Nigerian Army for professionals such as engineers, medical personnel, scientists, and other skilled specialists. Rather than joining through the regular combatant route, DSSC officers provide technical and professional services that support the Army’s operational effectiveness across the country.

Applicants who successfully complete training are deployed to various units where their expertise is needed most, making the programme both a career opportunity and a national service commitment.

Professions and Corps Eligible for DSSC 29/2026

The Nigerian Army has outlined several corps and services open to applicants under this recruitment. Candidates must apply strictly according to their field of study and professional certification.

Engineering professionals are eligible under the Nigerian Army Engineers, with accepted disciplines including civil, mechanical, electrical, structural, building, quantity surveying, architecture, environmental, and related engineering fields. Applicants must possess a BSc, BEng, or HND with at least an Upper Credit and must be registered with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

Those with backgrounds in information and communication technology may apply through the Nigerian Army Signals. Accepted qualifications include computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, networking, and related areas.

The Nigerian Army Medical Corps is open to a wide range of healthcare professionals, including medical doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, medical laboratory scientists, radiographers, and other allied health workers. Applicants must hold valid licenses from recognized professional bodies such as MDCN, NMCN, PCN, and others, depending on their profession.

Medical consultants in specialized fields such as surgery, orthopaedics, cardiology, neurology, anaesthesia, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology are also eligible. These applicants must possess postgraduate medical qualifications and current practicing licenses.

Other allied professionals, including psychologists, nutritionists, dental technologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and health information managers, may also apply provided they meet the Nigerian Army’s professional and academic requirements.

General Eligibility Conditions

To qualify for the DSSC Course 29/2026, applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth and must meet specific age requirements. Non-medical applicants are expected to be between 20 and 30 years old, while medical consultants may be up to 40 years old as of March 30, 2026.

All applicants must be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to Nigerian Army standards. Height requirements are set at a minimum of 1.68 metres for males and 1.65 metres for females. Candidates must also present a valid NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.

Good character is essential. Applicants must have no criminal record and must be recommended by credible referees. Tattoos or body inscriptions are not permitted, and all academic and professional certificates must be obtained from recognized institutions.

Conditions of Service and Rank Structure

Officers recruited through the DSSC will be granted a Short Service Commission, typically for an initial period that may be renewed based on performance and Army requirements. The first year of service is considered a probationary period.

Rank at commissioning depends on qualifications and professional category. Medical consultants may be commissioned at the rank of Major, while other professionals may begin as Lieutenants or Captains. Career progression is guided by performance, availability of vacancies, and military regulations.

How to Apply for DSSC 29/2026

Applications for the Nigerian Army DSSC Course 29/2026 are completely free and must be submitted online. Interested candidates are required to visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal, select the Direct Short Service Commission option, and carefully review the eligibility criteria before proceeding.

Applicants must complete the online form accurately and upload all required documents, including academic certificates, professional licenses, NYSC certificate, birth certificate or age declaration, and state of origin certificate. After submission, candidates are advised to print their application forms and referee documents for future reference.

Application Timeline

The online application portal opens on 9 January 2026 and closes on 6 February 2026. Applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered.

Important Information for Applicants

Candidates are strongly advised to submit only one application, as multiple submissions will lead to disqualification. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for screening and selection interviews, and final selection is subject to medical fitness and verification of all submitted credentials.

Applicants should rely solely on official Nigerian Army communication channels for updates and avoid third parties claiming to offer assistance in exchange for payment.

Why the DSSC Opportunity Is Important

The Nigerian Army DSSC programme offers professionals the chance to serve the nation while building a structured and respected career. Beyond employment, it provides leadership training, national exposure, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s security and development.