Nigerian Army Releases Shortlist for SSCC Course 50/2027, Announces Selection Dates

The Nigerian Army has released the list of shortlisted candidates for the Short Service Combatant Commission (SSCC) Course 50/2027 Selection Board, directing successful applicants to prepare for the next stage of the recruitment exercise.

The Army announced the development in a post on its official X account on Thursday, confirming that candidates can check their names on its recruitment portal at nashortservice.army.mil.ng.

According to the announcement, shortlisted applicants are expected to report to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Ribadu Campus, Old Site, in Kaduna State, from November 23, 2026.

The Selection Board exercise will run from November 23 to December 11, 2026.

The SSCC programme provides qualified Nigerian civilians and serving military personnel with an opportunity to become commissioned officers in the Nigerian Army.

Successful candidates may be assigned to the Combat Arms, comprising Infantry and Armour, or the Combat Support Arms, which include Artillery, Engineers, Signals and Intelligence.

The Army stated that candidates who successfully complete the training are typically commissioned as Second Lieutenants under a 15-year Short Service Commission.

Applicants who submitted their applications between mid-August and October 17, 2026, have been advised to visit the official recruitment portal to confirm their selection and check the specific reporting instructions.

Shortlisted candidates are also expected to prepare the original copies of their submitted credentials and other required documents ahead of the exercise.

These include educational certificates, birth certificates or age declaration documents, state of origin certificates, National Identification Number (NIN) slips, Bank Verification Number (BVN) slips, as well as properly signed photo-slips and guarantor forms.

The Army also warned applicants against falling victim to recruitment scams, urging them to disregard unofficial websites, agents or individuals demanding payment for recruitment-related services.

It reiterated that all stages of the recruitment process are free of charge and encouraged shortlisted candidates to prepare adequately for the medical, physical and interview assessments.

The military further advised applicants and members of the public to rely exclusively on its official recruitment website for accurate information and updates regarding the selection exercise.