The Nigerian Army has officially released the list of shortlisted candidates for the Direct Short Service Commission DSSC Course 29 for 2026. This announcement is an important step in the recruitment process and confirms that candidates who applied successfully have progressed to the next stage.
If you applied for the DSSC recruitment exercise, this guide will help you understand how to check your name, where and when the screening will take place, and what you are expected to bring. It also explains what to expect at the selection board and how to prepare properly.
This article is written to help candidates avoid common mistakes that often lead to disqualification.
Is the Nigerian Army DSSC Shortlist for 2026 Out?
Yes. The Nigerian Army has confirmed that the DSSC Course 29 2026 shortlist has been published.
Candidates who passed the initial application and screening stage can now check their names on the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal. Being shortlisted means you are eligible to attend the DSSC Selection Board exercise.
However, appearing on the list does not automatically mean final recruitment. Candidates must still pass the physical, medical, and document verification stages.
What Is the Nigerian Army DSSC Recruitment About?
The Direct Short Service Commission DSSC is a recruitment channel through which the Nigerian Army engages qualified professionals directly into commissioned officer roles.
This route is designed for individuals with specialized skills such as:
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Medicine and health sciences
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Engineering
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Law
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Education
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Information technology
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Logistics and administration
Successful candidates are trained and commissioned as officers after completing military training.
How to Check Nigerian Army DSSC Shortlisted Candidates 2026
Candidates are advised to check their status only through the official Nigerian Army portal to avoid misinformation.
Step by Step Guide
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Visit the Nigerian Army recruitment portal
https://recruitment.army.mil.ng -
On the homepage, locate the DSSC section
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Click on DSSC Course 29 2026 Shortlisted Candidates
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Download the list or search directly for your name
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Confirm your details carefully
If your name appears, take note of the reporting date and prepare all required items immediately.
Nigerian Army DSSC 2026 Screening Date and Venue
All shortlisted candidates are to report for the DSSC Selection Board exercise as scheduled by the Nigerian Army.
Official Screening Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna State |
| Reporting Date | 22 February 2026 |
| Screening Period | 23 February to 8 March 2026 |
| Reporting Time | 9:00 AM |
Candidates are expected to arrive on the reporting date. Late arrival may lead to automatic disqualification.
What Happens During the DSSC Selection Board Exercise?
The DSSC Selection Board exercise is a comprehensive assessment that tests both physical readiness and professional suitability.
Candidates should expect the following:
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Physical fitness assessment
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Medical examination
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Document verification
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Oral interview
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General military assessment
The Nigerian Army places strong emphasis on discipline, punctuality, and proper documentation.
Items Required for Nigerian Army DSSC Selection Exercise 2026
Shortlisted candidates must come fully prepared. Failure to bring required items may lead to disqualification.
General Items to Bring
Candidates are expected to bring personal and daily use items for the duration of the screening.
These include:
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Writing materials
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Bucket and toiletries
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Set of cutleries including plate and drinking cups
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Beddings such as blankets, bedspread, mosquito net, and pillow cases
These items are compulsory as candidates will stay within the screening facility.
Clothing Requirements for DSSC Screening
Proper dressing is mandatory. Candidates are expected to strictly follow the clothing instructions.
Required clothing includes:
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Three plain white short sleeve vests
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Three pairs of blue shorts
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One pair of canvas shoes or trainers
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Three pairs of white socks
Bright colored clothing, jeans, or fashion wear are not allowed.
Photograph Requirements
Candidates must come with recent photographs for documentation and verification.
Required Photographs
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Four copies of recent coloured passport photographs
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Four copies of recent full size coloured photographs taken in standing position and wearing a suit
Information to Write at the Back of Full Size Photographs
Each photograph must clearly have the following written:
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Surname
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First name
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Other name
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Date of birth
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Service number for serving personnel only
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Current unit for serving personnel only
Ensure handwriting is neat and legible.
Academic Verification Requirements
The Nigerian Army verifies academic results electronically.
Candidates are required to bring:
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Scratch cards for online verification of WAEC and or NECO results
This is mandatory for candidates who used these certificates during application.
Documents to Bring for DSSC Screening
All candidates must present original documents and photocopies arranged neatly in a file jacket.
Required Documents
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Academic and professional certificates
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Primary school certificate
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Secondary school certificate
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NYSC Discharge Certificate or valid Exemption Certificate where applicable
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Testimonials and any other relevant credentials
Original documents will be sighted and returned. Photocopies will be submitted.
Common Reasons Candidates Get Disqualified
Many candidates lose their opportunity due to avoidable mistakes.
Some common reasons include:
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Late arrival at the screening venue
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Incomplete documentation
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Wrong or fake certificates
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Failure to meet physical requirements
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Inconsistent information compared with application details
Candidates are strongly advised to double check all documents before travelling.
How to Prepare Properly for DSSC Screening
Preparation goes beyond packing items.
Here are practical tips:
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Arrive at least one day before reporting date
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Ensure documents are properly arranged
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Get enough rest before physical assessment
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Maintain good personal hygiene
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Follow instructions strictly
Discipline and attention to detail are highly valued by the Nigerian Army.
Nigerian Army DSSC Past Questions and Answers
Studying past questions can help candidates understand the nature of military aptitude tests and interviews.
Candidates preparing for DSSC recruitment can access verified past questions and answers to improve confidence and readiness.
This is especially helpful for first time applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nigerian Army DSSC 2026
Is the Nigerian Army DSSC shortlist final?
No. It only means you are eligible for screening. Final selection comes after the board exercise.
Can I attend screening if my name is not on the list?
No. Only shortlisted candidates are allowed at the screening venue.
Is DSSC screening free?
Yes. The Nigerian Army does not charge any fee for screening.
What happens after the DSSC screening?
Successful candidates will be invited for training and commissioning.
Can serving personnel apply for DSSC?
Yes. Serving personnel are eligible if they meet the requirements.
