Nigerian Army Shortlisted Candidates for DSSC Course 29/2026 | Full List, Selection Board Date, Requirements & Reporting Guide

The Nigerian Army has officially released the shortlisted candidates for Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026, marking a critical stage in the Nigerian Army recruitment process. Candidates who successfully made the shortlist are expected to attend the DSSC Selection Board exercise scheduled to hold at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, Kaduna State.

This announcement is a major milestone for applicants who participated in the DSSC recruitment exercise, as only qualified and vetted candidates progress to this stage. If your name appears on the list, it means you have passed the initial screening and documentation phase.

This comprehensive guide explains how to check the DSSC shortlisted candidates list, selection board dates, items to report with, what to expect at NASI Jaji, frequently asked questions, and key mistakes to avoid.

Nigerian Army DSSC Course 29/2026: Official Announcement

The Nigerian Army (NA) has announced that the list of successful candidates for DSSC Course 29/2026 Selection Board is now available to the public.

According to the official notice:

1. The shortlisted candidates list is published on the Nigerian Army recruitment portal
2. Successful candidates are to report for the Selection Board exercise
3. The exercise will take place at NASI, Jaji, Kaduna State
4. The selection board runs from 23 February to 8 March 2026

Official Portal:
https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

Candidates are strongly advised to rely only on official Nigerian Army communication channels to avoid misinformation and scams.

What Is Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) in the Nigerian Army?

The Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) is a special Nigerian Army recruitment pathway designed to enlist qualified professionals into the officer cadre for a limited but renewable period of service.

Unlike Regular Commission, DSSC targets applicants with:

1. University degrees
2. Professional certifications
3. Specialized technical skills

Successful DSSC candidates are commissioned as Lieutenants or Captains, depending on their qualifications and experience.

Nigerian Army DSSC Shortlisted Candidates 2026: How to Check the List

Candidates who applied for DSSC Course 29/2026 can check their status online.

Steps to Check DSSC Shortlisted Candidates

1. Visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal
2. Navigate to DSSC Course 29/2026 Shortlisted Candidates
3. Download or search the list
4. Confirm your name and application number

Official Link: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng

More Suggestion: Nigerian Army Recruitment Application Guide

DSSC Selection Board Venue and Reporting Date

All shortlisted candidates are required to report as follows:

Selection Board Details

1. Venue: Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji
2. State: Kaduna State
3. Reporting Time: 9:00 AM
4. Reporting Date: 22 February 2026
5. Selection Board Period: 23 February – 8 March 2026

Late reporting may lead to automatic disqualification, so candidates are advised to arrive early.

Items Required for DSSC Selection Board Exercise

Shortlisted candidates must report with all mandatory items listed by the Nigerian Army. Failure to present any required item may affect participation.

Mandatory Reporting Items

a. Writing Materials
Pens, pencils, notebooks, and other basic stationery.

b. Passport Photographs

1. 4 copies of recent coloured passport photographs

c. Full-Size Photographs

1. 4 copies of recent full-size coloured photographs
2. Standing position
3. Dressed in a suit

Photograph Details (Back of Photo)

Each photograph must have the following written clearly:

1. Surname
2. First Name
3. Other Name
4. Date of Birth
5. Service Number (serving personnel only)
6. Current Unit (serving personnel only)

Academic Verification Items

d. WAEC / NECO Scratch Cards

1. Required for online verification of results

Candidates without valid result verification may be disqualified.

Clothing and Personal Items

e. 3 plain white short-sleeve vests
f. 3 pairs of blue shorts
g. Canvas shoes or trainers
h. 3 pairs of white socks

Domestic and Utility Items

i. Bucket and toiletries
j. Set of cutleries

1. Plate
2. Drinking cup

k. Beddings

1. Blankets
2. Bedspread
3. Mosquito net
4. Pillowcases

What to Expect During DSSC Selection Board Exercise

The DSSC selection board is a rigorous screening process designed to evaluate candidates’ suitability for officer training.

Key Assessment Areas

1. Physical fitness tests
2. Medical examinations
3. Academic and certificate verification
4. Psychological assessment
5. Oral interview
6. Military aptitude evaluation

Candidates are advised to be mentally alert, physically fit, and disciplined throughout the exercise.

Common Reasons Candidates Get Disqualified

Despite being shortlisted, some candidates fail to complete the selection board successfully due to avoidable mistakes.

Common Disqualification Causes

1. Incomplete documentation
2. Fake or inconsistent certificates
3. Poor physical fitness
4. Medical unfitness
5. Late arrival
6. Misconduct or indiscipline

Any form of falsification leads to immediate disqualification.

DSSC Training After Selection Board

Candidates who pass the selection board proceed to Direct Short Service Commission training, which includes:

1. Military ethics
2. Leadership training
3. Tactical operations
4. Weapon handling
5. Field exercises

Training prepares candidates for commissioning into the Nigerian Army officer corps.

Salary Structure and Benefits for DSSC Officers

DSSC officers enjoy competitive remuneration regulated by the Federal Government.

Estimated Monthly Salary (Entry Level)

1. Lieutenant / Captain: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000+
   (depending on rank and allowances)

Additional Benefits

1. Housing allowance
2. Medical care
3. Uniform allowance
4. Pension scheme
5. Career progression opportunities

Is DSSC Recruitment Free?

Yes. Nigerian Army DSSC recruitment is completely free.

The Nigerian Army does not authorize agents or middlemen. Candidates are advised to report any fraudulent activity to security authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is DSSC Course 29/2026 selection board?

From 23 February to 8 March 2026.

Where is the DSSC selection board venue?

At Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, Kaduna State.

Can I attend without all required items?

No. Missing items may lead to disqualification.

Is DSSC recruitment online?

Only the application and shortlist checking stages are online. The selection board is physical.

What happens after selection board?

Successful candidates proceed to DSSC officer training.

Testimonies from Previous DSSC Candidates

Captain Ibrahim S., DSSC Graduate
“The selection board was tough but fair. Preparation made all the difference.”

Lieutenant Chiamaka O., DSSC Officer
“Reporting with the correct items saved me unnecessary stress. Attention to detail matters.”

Major Daniel A.
“DSSC is one of the best entry routes for professionals who want to serve Nigeria.”

Important Advice for DSSC Shortlisted Candidates

1. Obey all instructions strictly
2. Maintain discipline at all times
3. Be truthful during interviews
4. Stay physically and mentally fit
5. Avoid unauthorized absences

Conclusion

The release of the Nigerian Army shortlisted candidates for DSSC Course 29/2026 is a significant step toward commissioning new officers into the Nigerian Army. Candidates who have been shortlisted should prepare thoroughly, report on time, and comply fully with all requirements.

Always rely on official Nigerian Army platforms for updates and avoid misinformation.

Official Recruitment Portal: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng