How to Join the Nigerian Army: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you interested in joining the Nigerian Army? Do you want to serve your country and protect it from internal and external threats? If so, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to become a Nigerian Army officer or soldier. From the eligibility criteria to the application process, from the training to the deployment, we will cover everything you need to know to be a part of the Nigerian Army.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you apply to join the Nigerian Army, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the basic requirements:

Age

The minimum age for entry into the Nigerian Army is 18 years, while the maximum age is 22 years for non-tradesmen/women and 26 years for tradesmen/women.

Educational Qualification

You need to have a minimum of four credits at not more than two sittings in WASSCE/NECO/GCE/NABTEB, including English Language and Mathematics, for non-tradesmen/women. Tradesmen/women must also have a minimum of four credits in relevant trades.

Height

The minimum height requirement for male applicants is 1.68 meters (5'6"), while the minimum height requirement for female applicants is 1.62 meters (5'4").

Medical Fitness

You must be medically fit and free from any physical or mental disability. You will have to undergo a medical examination and meet the medical standards set by the Nigerian Army.

Character

You must have a good character and not have any criminal record. You will have to provide a certificate of good conduct from a recognized institution.

Application Process

Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you can apply to join the Nigerian Army. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Visit the Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal

Go to the Nigerian Army recruitment portal at www.recruitment.army.mil.ng and click on "Apply".

Step 2: Create an Account

Create an account by providing your email address and a password. You will receive a verification email to confirm your email address.

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

Fill in the application form with your personal details, educational qualifications, and other relevant information. Make sure you provide accurate and up-to-date information.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of your educational certificates, birth certificate, certificate of origin, passport photograph, and other required documents.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Submit your application and print out the acknowledgement slip. Keep it safe as you will need it during the screening exercise.

Screening Exercise

If your application is successful, you will be invited for a screening exercise. Here are the things you need to know:

Date and Venue

You will be informed of the date, time, and venue of the screening exercise through the email address and phone number you provided during registration.

Requirements

You will need to bring the following items for the screening exercise:

• Acknowledgement slip
• Identification card (Driver's license, Voter's card, National ID card, or International passport)
• Original and photocopies of your credentials
• Writing materials (pen, pencil, eraser, and ruler)

Screening Process

The screening exercise will include the following:

• Physical fitness test
• Medical test
• Aptitude test
• Document verification

Training

If you pass the screening exercise, you will be invited for training at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria. Here are the things you need to know:

Duration

The duration of training is six months for non-tradesmen/women and nine months for tradesmen/women.

Curriculum

The training curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects of military training, including:

• Drill
• Map reading
• Weapon handling
• Physical fitness
• Field craft
• First aid
• Military law
• Communication

Accommodation

You will be provided with accommodation, food, and other basic needs during the training period.

Deployment

After completing your training, you will be deployed to a unit and assigned to a specific job role. Here are the things you need to know:

Job Roles

The Nigerian Army has various job roles, including:

• Infantry
• Armored
• Artillery
• Engineers
• Signals
• Intelligence
• Medical
• Supply and transport

Deployment

Your deployment will depend on your job role and the needs of the Nigerian Army. You may be deployed to fight insurgency and terrorism in the North East, maintain peace and security in other parts of the country, or participate in international peacekeeping missions.

Conclusion

Joining the Nigerian Army is a noble and patriotic act that requires dedication, discipline, and commitment. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are willing to undergo the rigorous training, you can become a part of the Nigerian Army and serve your country with honor and pride.

FAQs

1. What is the minimum age for entry into the Nigerian Army?

   • The minimum age is 18 years.

2. What is the maximum age for entry into the Nigerian Army?

   • The maximum age is 22 years for non-tradesmen/women and 26 years for tradesmen/women.

3. What are the educational requirements for joining the Nigerian Army?

   • You need to have a minimum of four credits at not more than two sittings in WASSCE/NECO/GCE/NABTEB, including English Language and Mathematics, for non-tradesmen/women. Tradesmen/women must also have a minimum of four credits in relevant trades.

4. What is the duration of training in the Nigerian Army?

   • The duration of training is six months for non-tradesmen/women and nine months for tradesmen/women.

5. What job roles are available in the Nigerian Army?

   • The Nigerian Army has various job roles, including Infantry, Armored, Artillery, Engineers, Signals, Intelligence, Medical, and Supply and Transport.