DSSC Army Recruitment 2026 Application Portal, Requirements, Ranks, Salary & How to Apply

DSSC Army Recruitment 2026/2027 has commenced for graduate and undergraduate. The Nigerian Army (NA) Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026 is currently inviting applications from qualified civilians and serving military personnel for commissioning into specialized corps, including Engineering, Signals, Medical, Electrical/Mechanical, and Education. Learn how to apply, requirements, ranks, salary structure, application portal, deadlines, and selection process.

Every year, thousands of qualified Nigerians search for a way to serve their country without starting from the lowest military rank. For professionals like doctors, engineers, lawyers, pharmacists, ICT specialists, and other skilled graduates, the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) of the Nigerian Army offers that rare opportunity.

If you’ve been asking questions like “When will DSSC Army recruitment 2026 start?”, “Who is eligible to apply?”, or “How do I apply successfully without making mistakes?” you’re in the right place.

The DSSC Army Recruitment 2026 is expected to attract massive interest, especially due to rising unemployment and the increasing demand for professional officers within the Nigerian Army. Unlike regular recruitment, DSSC allows qualified civilians to enter the Army as commissioned officers, based on their academic and professional background.

This comprehensive guide breaks everything down in plain language from eligibility and requirements to salary structure, ranks, training, and step-by-step application procedures so you can apply confidently when the portal opens.

What Is DSSC in the Nigerian Army?

DSSC stands for Direct Short Service Commission. It is a recruitment programme designed by the Nigerian Army to bring in professionals and specialists as officers for a fixed period of service.

Unlike:

• Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) – for non-tradesmen and tradesmen

• Regular Combatant Course (RCC) – long-term commissioned service

DSSC officers:

• Are commissioned directly as officers

• Serve for a limited number of years (usually renewable)

• Are deployed based on their professional expertise

Is DSSC Army Recruitment 2026 Out?

As of now, the DSSC Army recruitment 2026 form has not officially been released.

However, based on previous recruitment cycles:

• DSSC recruitment is usually announced once a year

• Official updates come from the Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal

• Application is 100% free

Important Warning:
Any website or individual claiming the DSSC 2026 form is already on sale is a scam.

Official DSSC Army Recruitment Portal 2026

All DSSC applications are done online through the official Nigerian Army portal:

• https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

You should only trust information published on:

• Nigerian Army website

• Verified Nigerian Army social media pages

• National newspapers

General Requirements for DSSC Army Recruitment 2026

To be eligible for DSSC Army recruitment 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Basic Eligibility

• Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth

• Must possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN)

• Must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit

• Must have no criminal record

Age Requirement

• Minimum age: 28 years

• Maximum age: 40 years (depending on profession)

Educational Qualifications

Applicants must possess at least:

• Bachelor’s degree or HND (minimum of Second Class Lower or Upper Credit)

• NYSC discharge or exemption certificate

• Professional certifications (where applicable)

Professional Fields Accepted

DSSC recruitment is open to professionals such as:

• Medical Doctors

• Nurses and Midwives

• Pharmacists

• Engineers

• ICT Specialists

• Lawyers

• Accountants

• Psychologists

• Architects

• Surveyors

• Physiotherapists

• Public Relations Officers

• Education Specialists

Height and Physical Requirements

• Male: Minimum height of 1.68m

• Female: Minimum height of 1.65m

• Proportionate body weight

• No physical deformities

• Good eyesight and hearing

Documents Required for DSSC Application

Applicants will be required to upload:

• Passport photograph

• Academic certificates

• NYSC certificate

• Birth certificate or age declaration

• Local government certificate of origin

• Professional licenses

• Valid means of identification

Ranks Offered Under DSSC Army Recruitment

Successful DSSC applicants are commissioned as officers, depending on qualification:

DSSC Army Salary Structure (Updated Guide)

DSSC officers are paid according to the Nigerian Army salary scale, including allowances.

Estimated Monthly Salary

• Lieutenant: ₦180,000 – ₦230,000

• Captain: ₦220,000 – ₦300,000

• Major: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000+

Allowances Include

• Housing allowance

• Transport allowance

• Uniform allowance

• Field and operational allowance

• Medical coverage

• Pension and insurance benefits

Duration of DSSC Service

• Initial service period: Short-term commission

• Can be extended based on:

  • Performance

  • Army needs

  • Personal request

• Some officers are later converted to permanent commission

DSSC Army Training Programme

Successful candidates undergo intensive training at:

• Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC)

• Or other designated military institutions

Training Covers

• Military drills

• Weapon handling

• Leadership and command

• Physical fitness

• Military law and ethics

• Field operations

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for DSSC Army Recruitment 2026

To apply for this DSSC Recruitment 2026/2027. When the portal opens, follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit recruitment.army.mil.ng

2. Select DSSC Application

3. Create an account with a valid email

4. Fill in your personal and academic details

5. Upload required documents

6. Submit the application

7. Print acknowledgment slip

8. Wait for shortlist announcement

DSSC Screening and Selection Process

1: Online Screening

• Verification of submitted documents

2: Physical Screening

• Medical tests

• Document verification

• Physical fitness assessment

3: Interview & Final Selection

• Professional evaluation

• Background checks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying on fake websites

• Uploading unclear documents

• Incorrect date of birth

• Multiple applications

• Paying anyone for “assistance”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is DSSC recruitment free?

Yes. The Nigerian Army does not charge any fee.

Can women apply for DSSC Army recruitment 2026?

Yes. Qualified female professionals are encouraged to apply.

Can I apply with HND?

Yes, if it is relevant to the required professional field.

Is DSSC a permanent job?

It is initially a short-term commission but may be extended.

Why DSSC Army Recruitment Is Highly Competitive

• Limited slots

• High number of applicants

• Strict screening process

• Professional standards

Early preparation significantly improves your chances.

Final Thoughts

The DSSC Army Recruitment 2026 remains one of the best pathways for Nigerian professionals to serve the nation while enjoying structured career growth, stable income, and national pride. If you meet the requirements and prepare properly, this opportunity can be life-changing.

Always rely on official sources, avoid shortcuts, and stay patient throughout the recruitment process.