Nigerian Army Shortlisted Candidates 2025: Full Guide to Checking, Process, and Next Steps

Nigerian Army shortlisted candidates 2025: Check 89RRI/SSCC lists on recruitment.army.mil.ng, full process (screening June/Dec), docs, fitness tips & common mistakes—guide.

Dreaming of serving in the Nigerian Army? The 2025 recruitment cycle for the 89 Regular Recruit Intake (89RRI) and Short Service Combatant Course (SSCC) 49/2026 has released shortlists, marking a key milestone for thousands of applicants. As of November 24, 2025, successful candidates advance to screening, but the process is competitive and requires preparation. This ultimate guide on Nigerian Army shortlisted candidates 2025 covers how to check your status, eligibility, the full recruitment timeline, required documents, and tips for success—your one-stop resource for navigating this life-changing opportunity.

Overview of Nigerian Army Recruitment 2025: Key Intakes and Eligibility

The Nigerian Army's 2025 recruitment focuses on building a robust force amid national security needs, targeting youth aged 18–26 for non-trades and tradesmen/women.

Major intakes:

89RRI (Regular Recruit Intake): For trades/non-trades; shortlist released May 27, 2025.
SSCC 49/2026 (Short Service Combatant): For graduates; shortlist released November 24, 2025, with selection board December 1–19.

Eligibility basics:

Nigerian citizen by birth, single.
SSCE with 4 credits (including English/Math) for RRI; HND/BSc for SSCC.
Height: 1.68m (male), 1.65m (female); medically fit.
No tattoos, criminal record.

Applications were free via recruitment.army.mil.ng from March 31 to May 17 for 89RRI.

For full requirements, visit the official Nigerian Army recruitment portal.

How to Check Nigerian Army Shortlisted Candidates 2025: Step-by-Step

Checking your status is simple and free—avoid scams promising "guaranteed spots."

For 89RRI Shortlist (Trades/Non-Trades)

Visit recruitment.army.mil.ng/drm.
Select your state of origin from the dropdown.
Scroll through the PDF list or search by name/application number.
If listed, note screening dates (June 2–16, 2025, in your state).

Shortlist published May 27, 2025—over 100,000 applicants competed for limited slots.

For SSCC 49/2026 Shortlist

Go to recruitment.army.mil.ng.
Log in with application credentials.
Check "Shortlisted Candidates" section or download PDF.
Report to NDA Old Site, Kaduna, for selection board (December 1–19, 2025).

If not shortlisted, reapply next cycle—no supplementary for 2025.

Quick CTA: Head to the portal now—log in and search your name in under a minute!

The Nigerian Army Recruitment Process 2025: From Application to Commissioning

Understanding the stages helps shortlisted candidates prepare.

Online Application (March–May 2025): Submit via portal; upload credentials.
Shortlisting: Based on docs/eligibility; lists released state-wise.
Zonal/State Screening (June 2–16 for 89RRI): Physical/medical checks, IQ test.
Final Selection Board: Interviews, fitness for SSCC (December 2025).
Training: Depot NA Zaria (6 months for recruits) or NDA (1 year for combatants).
Commissioning: As Second Lieutenant or Soldier.

No fees at any stage—report scams to 112.

What Shortlisted Candidates Need to Prepare

Success demands readiness—many fail here.

Required documents:

Original + photocopies of SSCE/WAEC/NECO (4 credits min.).
Birth certificate or age declaration.
Local government ID.
2 passport photos.
NIN slip and BVN printout.
Signed parental consent letter (no liability for injury/death).

Fitness prep:

Run 2.4km in 15 minutes (males); 1.5km in 13 minutes (females).
Push-ups, sit-ups, squats.

Medical: No tattoos, deformities; BMI 18.5–25.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Shortlisted candidates often slip up—don't be one.

Missing Docs: Double-check list; photocopy extras.
Late Arrival: Screening starts 6 AM—arrive by 5 AM.
Inducements: Free process—bribes lead to disqualification.
Alterations: Fake certs = instant out.
No Parental Letter: Required for under-21s.

Stay vigilant against fraudsters charging for "shortlisting."

Broader Context: Why 2025 Recruitment Matters

Amid insecurity (banditry, insurgency), the Army needs 10,000+ recruits yearly.

89RRI targets 5,000–6,000 slots; SSCC 300+ officers.

Women encouraged—20% quota.

For career paths, explore Nigerian Army careers.

The Nigerian Army shortlisted candidates 2025 lists represent hope for many—89RRI from May and SSCC from November advance thousands toward service.

Made the cut? Prepare rigorously. Not yet? Apply next cycle.

Share your story—shortlisted or preparing? Comment below! Bookmark for screening reminders, share with applicants, and subscribe for updates. Serve with pride—your nation calls!