How to apply for 2026 Nigerian Army recruitment

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The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of online registration for the 91st Regular Recruits Intake (91RRI) for tradesmen/women and non-tradesmen/women.

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The application portal will open on Sunday, March 30, 2026, and close on Saturday, May 17, 2026.

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This annual recruitment exercise offers young Nigerians the opportunity to join the force as soldiers.

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In this report, PUNCH Online provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the 2026 Nigerian Army recruitment exercise.

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Who Can Apply?

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To be eligible for the 91RRI, candidates must meet the following criteria:

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  Applicants must be single Nigerian citizens by birth and must possess a National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).

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  The name and date of birth on the NIN must correspond with those on the BVN and all other credentials.

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  Applicants must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit in accordance with Nigerian Army standards.

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  Applicants must have no criminal conviction by any court of competent jurisdiction.

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  Applicants must possess at least four passes, including English Language, in not more than two sittings in WASSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB/NBAIS.

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  In addition to the above, those applying as tradesmen/women must possess a Trade Test or City and Guild Certificate.

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  Applicants must possess a valid birth certificate endorsed by the National Population Commission, hospital, or local government council. A court affidavit of age declaration is also acceptable.

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  Applicants must be between 18 and 22 years for non-tradesmen/women, while tradesmen/women must not be more than 26 years by June 30, 2026.

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  Applicants must not be less than 1.68 metres and 1.65 metres tall for male and female candidates, respectively.

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  Applicants must apply using their state of origin and not their state of residence.

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  Applicants must possess a valid certificate of state of origin.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

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Visit the Official Recruitment Portal
Go to the Nigerian Army recruitment website: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng/n

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Select the Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) Option
On the homepage, locate and click on the Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) application section for the 91st intake.n

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Read the Eligibility Criteria Carefully
Thoroughly review all conditions of entry to confirm eligibility before proceeding. Pay attention to SSCE requirements and age/height specifications.n

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Create an Account or Sign In
New applicants should click on “Sign Up” or “Register” to create an account using a valid email address.n

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Fill the Online Application Form
Provide accurate personal details, educational qualifications, state of origin, NIN, BVN, and any trade certifications (where applicable). Upload scanned copies of required documents.

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Review and Submit
Double-check all entered information for accuracy before submitting the application. A confirmation will be sent via email or displayed on the portal.n

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Print Your Acknowledgement Slip
After successful submission, download and print the application acknowledgement slip.n

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Candidates must ensure they complete and submit the application online after printing their photo card. Failure to submit online will lead to disqualification.

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Screening and Next Steps

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Successful applicants will be invited for physical screening at designated centres across the country.

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Candidates must present duly signed copies of the following documents at the state screening exercise: photo card, declaration by applicant, parent/guardian consent form, certification by Local Government Chairman/Secretary, certification by Divisional Police Officer, and guarantor’s form.

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Candidates are advised to prepare for screening, which includes physical fitness tests, medical examinations, and document verification.

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Additional Information

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  There will be no pre-selection computer-based test.

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  Screening will be conducted in candidates’ respective states of origin.

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  Candidates must not bring electronic or recording devices to screening venues.

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  Tattoos, body inscriptions, or piercings (other than tribal marks) are not allowed. Multiple ear piercings for females are not allowed.

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  Candidates must present original copies of all credentials, including primary and secondary school certificates.

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  Candidates must not belong to any cult, secret society, or fraternity.

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  Candidates found to have falsified documents will be withdrawn and handed over to the police.

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  Applicants must not give any form of gratification to any individual or group for assistance during the recruitment process.

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  Candidates must come with their NIN and BVN slips.

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  For inquiries, candidates may contact: 07036499094 or 09041116433.

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  Names of shortlisted candidates will be published on the Nigerian Army website.

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  Shortlisted candidates are expected to report to their states of origin for screening between June 9 and June 23, 2026.

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Benefits of Serving in the Nigerian Army

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  Career stability and progression with defined promotion criteria

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  Enhanced and regular salary/allowances

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  Access to continuous military education and specialised training (local and international)

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  Opportunities for further education

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  Social integration across diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds

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  Comprehensive healthcare for personnel and their families

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  Pension and gratuity upon retirement

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  Opportunities for national and international service

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  Post-service career opportunities

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All documents will be verified by the appropriate issuing authorities, and candidates with fake documents will be handed over to the police for prosecution.

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