Joining the Nigerian Army is not only for university graduates or officers it is also open to non-graduates who are determined, physically fit, and ready to serve their country with honor. If you have a secondary school certificate (SSCE), National Diploma (ND), or National Certificate in Education (NCE), the Nigerian Army Recruitment 2025/2026 for Non-Graduates is your chance to wear the uniform and build a meaningful career in one of the most respected institutions in Nigeria.
This article is a full breakdown of the recruitment process for non-graduates, including who is eligible, how to apply, what training to expect, job roles available, salary structure, and the opportunities that await you in the Nigerian Army.
Who Is This Recruitment for?
This particular intake is meant for enlisted personnel those who join the Nigerian Army as recruits, not officers. While officer positions require higher degrees, the Nigerian Army also recruits a large number of non-graduates to serve in various support and combat roles.
This recruitment usually happens through the Regular Recruit Intake (RRI). It is the gateway for thousands of Nigerians to enter the military each year and begin a career that may eventually lead to advanced training, promotion, and even commissioning.
Minimum Educational Requirements
You don’t need a university degree to join the Army through the RRI. However, some basic educational qualifications are still required:
Acceptable Certificates:
- Senior School Certificate (SSCE) – WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB with at least 5 credits, including English and Mathematics.
- National Diploma (ND) or NCE – These qualifications are accepted for tradesmen/tradeswomen categories.
- Trade Test/Professional Certifications – If you’re applying as a tradesman (e.g., electrician, plumber, mechanic), you must provide evidence of your skills.
Note: Candidates without trade skills can apply as non-tradesmen, while those with a trade or profession apply under tradesmen category.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for Nigerian Army recruitment as a non-graduate, you must meet certain conditions:
General Eligibility:
- Must be Nigerian by birth.
- Must possess a valid means of identification (NIN, Voter’s Card, etc.).
- Must be between 18 and 22 years for non-tradesmen and 18 to 26 years for tradesmen/women.
- Must be medically and physically fit.
- Height requirement:
- Male – 1.68 meters minimum
- Female – 1.62 meters minimum
- Must not have been convicted of any crime.
- Must be single at the time of applying.
- Must be free from any tattoos, gang affiliation, or body inscriptions.
Available Roles for Non-Graduate Recruits
The Nigerian Army employs non-graduates in both combat and support roles. Some of the key areas where you may be posted include:
For Non-Tradesmen:
- Infantry
- Artillery
- Signals
- Logistics
- Military Police
- Armour Corps
- Medical Orderlies (with minimal training)
For Tradesmen/Tradeswomen:
- Tailoring and Fashion
- Auto Mechanics
- Driving
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Photography
- Cooking and Catering
- Masonry
- Plumbing
- Electricians
- Clerical Work (for ND/NCE holders)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s how to apply for the Nigerian Army recruitment as a non-graduate when the form is released:
1. Visit the Official Recruitment Portal
Go to the Nigerian Army recruitment site (commonly recruitment.army.mil.ng) when applications open.
2. Select ‘Regular Recruit Intake (RRI)’
You’ll find the application form for non-graduates under this category.
3. Register and Fill Out the Form
Provide accurate personal information, including:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- State of origin
- Academic qualifications
- Marital status
- Contact details
4. Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload:
- Your SSCE, ND, or NCE result
- Passport photograph
- Birth certificate/age declaration
- Certificate of origin
- Valid form of ID
5. Submit and Print Acknowledgement Slip
Submit the application and print the confirmation slip. This slip will be required at the physical screening center.
⚠️ Important: Application is completely free. Do not pay anyone or fall for fake websites or “agents.”
What Happens After You Apply?
After application, qualified candidates are shortlisted and invited for physical screening at designated Army formations across the country.
The Screening Process Includes:
- Height and weight check
- Medical examination
- Physical fitness test (running, push-ups, sit-ups, etc.)
- Document verification
- Aptitude test (basic general knowledge and numeracy)
Candidates who successfully pass the screening are selected for basic military training.
Training and Life as a Recruit
If selected, you will undergo Basic Military Training for about 6 months at one of the Nigerian Army training schools. This period is physically and mentally intense.
During Training, You’ll Learn:
- Weapon handling
- Physical combat and drills
- Military discipline and ethics
- Obedience and loyalty to superiors
- Tactical movement and survival skills
- Internal security and peacekeeping strategies
Upon successful completion, you’ll be deployed to a unit or battalion within Nigeria, depending on national security needs.
Salary Structure for Non-Graduate Recruits
While Army pay varies based on rank and experience, below are estimated monthly salaries for new non-graduate soldiers:
Starting Salary:
- Private (Entry Level): ₦50,000 – ₦60,000
- Lance Corporal: ₦63,000 – ₦70,000
- Corporal: ₦72,000 – ₦80,000
- Sergeant: ₦90,000 – ₦110,000
- Staff Sergeant and Above: ₦120,000 and above
Other Benefits:
- Free uniforms and accommodation
- Subsidized meals
- Free medical care for soldier and family
- Leave and travel allowance
- Pension scheme and gratuity
- Opportunity to rise through ranks
Mistakes That Could Disqualify You
Many applicants lose their chance because of avoidable errors. Here’s what to avoid:
- Submitting incomplete or forged documents
- Providing false information
- Applying more than once
- Missing the screening date
- Being physically unfit or having medical issues
- Failing drug tests or having visible tattoos
Common Questions Answered
Q: Can I apply with only NECO or WAEC?
Yes, provided you have at least 5 credits including English and Mathematics.
Q: Is the training hard?
Yes, it’s physically and mentally demanding. But it prepares you for real-life military responsibilities.
Q: Can I apply if I’m married?
No. Only single individuals are accepted into this recruitment batch.
Q: Can women apply?
Yes. Females who meet the physical and academic criteria are encouraged to apply.
Q: Is the recruitment free?
Absolutely. The Nigerian Army does not charge for recruitment. Avoid scammers.
Final Word: Let Your Strength Serve the Nation
The Nigerian Army offers more than a job it provides a platform for those with courage, discipline, and strength to grow into national defenders. You don’t need a degree to make an impact. With just your SSCE, ND, or NCE, you can step into a structured life of service, loyalty, and personal advancement.
If you believe you have what it takes physically, mentally, and emotionally—then get ready for the Nigerian Army Recruitment 2025/2026 for Non-Graduates. This could be your pathway to a brighter future, wearing the uniform with pride.
Thank you sir