Precious AdebayoNigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) Application 2025/2026 | Apply Now
Introduction
The Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) 2025/2026 application presents one of the most significant recruitment opportunities for patriotic Nigerians eager to build a career in the Army. Through this recruitment program, the Nigerian Army seeks to enlist disciplined, capable, and physically fit young men and women to serve as soldiers, tradesmen, and tradeswomen across various units and divisions.
The RRI is designed for candidates who may not possess university degrees but are driven by the spirit of service, loyalty, and patriotism. Every year, the Nigerian Army conducts this nationwide recruitment to strengthen its manpower and operational effectiveness in defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) 2025/2026, including the application process, eligibility requirements, qualifications, ranks, salaries, and real applicant testimonies. Whether you are a tradesman, technician, or non-tradesman seeking to serve your nation, this article provides all the information you need to apply successfully.
Understanding the Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI)
The Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) is different from officer recruitment programs like the SSC (Short Service Commission) and DSSC (Direct Short Service Commission). While SSC and DSSC target university and polytechnic graduates, the RRI focuses primarily on candidates with O’Level, OND, or trade qualifications who wish to join the Army as soldiers rather than commissioned officers.
The Nigerian Army conducts RRI recruitment in two major categories:
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Trades/Tradesmen and Tradeswomen:
These are candidates who possess trade certificates, technical training, or vocational skills such as mechanics, electricians, welders, drivers, carpenters, fashion designers, painters, technicians, or ICT specialists. -
Non-Tradesmen and Non-Tradeswomen:
These are candidates without specific trade skills but who meet the minimum academic requirements (usually SSCE, NECO, or NABTEB). Non-tradesmen serve in general soldiering duties, including combat, logistics, and administrative roles.
Both categories go through rigorous training at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria, which prepares them physically, mentally, and morally for military life.
Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) Application 2025/2026 | Apply Now
General Requirements for RRI 2025/2026
To ensure fairness and professionalism, the Nigerian Army has outlined specific criteria every applicant must meet. Meeting these standards is critical for eligibility and successful shortlisting.
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Nationality: Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth and possess a valid National Identity Number (NIN).
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Age Requirements:
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Non-Tradesmen/Women: 18 to 22 years by the time of application.
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Tradesmen/Women: 18 to 26 years, depending on the trade category.
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Marital Status: All applicants must be single and without dependents at the time of application.
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Height:
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Minimum height for males: 1.68 meters (5.5 feet)
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Minimum height for females: 1.62 meters (5.3 feet)
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Educational Qualifications:
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Minimum of five credits in SSCE/NECO/NABTEB including English and Mathematics.
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Tradesmen must possess trade test or vocational certificates (City & Guilds, OND, NABTEB, or equivalent).
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Medical Fitness: Applicants must be medically, mentally, and physically fit according to the Nigerian Army medical standards.
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Character and Discipline: Candidates must have good moral character and must not have been convicted by any court of law.
Documents Required for Application
Before applying, ensure that you have the following documents scanned and ready for upload:
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Passport-sized recent photograph
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Educational certificates (O’Level, OND, or trade test certificates)
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Birth certificate or age declaration
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Certificate of state of origin
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National Identity Card (NIN slip)
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Completed Guarantor’s Form signed by a recognized official (military officer, civil servant, or traditional ruler)
How to Apply for Nigerian Army RRI 2025/2026
Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply correctly and avoid disqualification.
Step 1: Visit the Official Recruitment Portal
Go to the official Nigerian Army recruitment website: https://recruitment.army.mil.ng
Step 2: Create a Personal Account
Click on “Apply Now” and create an account using a valid email address and password. Remember to keep your login details safe.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill in all the required details, including your personal information, educational background, trade or skill (if applicable), and contact information. Upload all necessary documents in the correct format.
Step 4: Print the Acknowledgment and Guarantor Forms
After submitting your application, print the acknowledgment slip and guarantor’s form. You will need them during the screening phase.
Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted through the Nigerian Army recruitment portal or email for zonal screening. Ensure your contact details are accurate.
Step 6: Attend the Screening Exercise
Attend the physical and document verification at your zonal recruitment center. Come with originals and photocopies of all uploaded documents, two passport photographs, and a valid means of identification.
Step 7: Final Selection and Training
Successful candidates will be notified for training at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria, where they will undergo months of rigorous military and physical training.
Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) Application 2025/2026 | Apply Now
Nigerian Army Training and Life at Depot, Zaria
Training at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, is both intensive and transformative. It is designed to build discipline, strength, leadership, and resilience in every recruit. The training includes physical drills, weapon handling, field craft, first aid, map reading, and combat operations.
The duration of training usually lasts six to nine months depending on the batch. Upon successful completion, recruits are officially passed out as soldiers and assigned to various corps and units within the Nigerian Army.
During the training period, recruits receive accommodation, uniforms, feeding, and monthly allowances.
Salary Structure and Ranks for Recruits
Below is the salary and rank structure for Nigerian Army soldiers enlisted through RRI:
Ranks for Non-Commissioned Officers
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Private
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Lance Corporal
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Corporal
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Sergeant
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Staff Sergeant
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Warrant Officer
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Master Warrant Officer
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Army Warrant Officer
Estimated Monthly Salary Structure
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Private: ₦49,000 – ₦55,000
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Lance Corporal: ₦57,000 – ₦63,000
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Corporal: ₦65,000 – ₦70,000
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Sergeant: ₦75,000 – ₦85,000
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Staff Sergeant: ₦95,000 – ₦105,000
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Warrant Officer: ₦110,000 – ₦130,000
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Master Warrant Officer: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000
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Army Warrant Officer: ₦200,000 – ₦250,000
In addition to their salaries, soldiers are entitled to various allowances such as housing, transport, operational, and risk allowances. They also benefit from free healthcare, pensions, and educational support for their dependents.
Five Realistic Applicant Testimonies
1. Private Hassan Yusuf (RRI 2016 Set)
“I joined the Army through the Regular Recruit Intake after finishing secondary school. The training at Depot was tough but shaped my character. Today, I’m proud to serve in the infantry unit. The Army gave me discipline and direction.”
2. Corporal Blessing Nwosu (Tradeswoman – Tailor)
“As a fashion designer, I applied under the trades category. The process was fair and transparent. Now, I serve in the logistics department, handling uniforms and fabrications. I encourage other skilled youths to apply.”
3. Sergeant John Eze (Non-Tradesman)
“My dream was to serve Nigeria, and the RRI made it possible. The Army has provided me stability, training, and opportunities I never imagined. I’ve been promoted twice and currently serve in peacekeeping operations.”
4. Lance Corporal Fatima Musa (RRI 2019 Batch)
“Being a woman in the Army has been an empowering experience. The Nigerian Army treats everyone equally based on performance and discipline. Joining through RRI changed my life for the better.”
5. Staff Sergeant Daniel Okon (Tradesman – Mechanic)
“I applied with my NABTEB certificate in automobile engineering. Today, I work in the Army’s transport workshop maintaining armored vehicles. The career growth and welfare are impressive.”
Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) Application 2025/2026 | Apply Now
Tips for a Successful RRI Application
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Apply early before the portal closes.
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Double-check all information before submission.
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Avoid using fake documents or multiple applications.
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Prepare physically by exercising regularly before the screening.
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Stay updated through the official recruitment portal and credible news sources.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Providing incorrect or inconsistent details.
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Ignoring age, qualification, or height requirements.
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Failing to print acknowledgment and guarantor forms.
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Missing the screening date.
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Paying money to unauthorized persons — recruitment is free of charge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Nigerian Army RRI 2025/2026 form out?
Not yet. The Nigerian Army will announce the official date through its verified website and social media pages.
2. What is the official RRI portal?
The only valid portal is https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.
3. Do I need a university degree to apply?
No. The RRI is open to applicants with secondary school or vocational qualifications.
4. Can women apply?
Yes. Both men and women can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
5. How long is the training at Depot, Zaria?
Training lasts between six and nine months, depending on the batch and Army requirements.
6. Is the recruitment form free?
Yes. The Nigerian Army does not charge any fee for recruitment.
7. Can I apply for both trades and non-trades categories?
No. Choose one category that fits your qualification and interest.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) 2025/2026 remains one of the best pathways for young Nigerians seeking a disciplined, honorable, and lifelong career in the military. Whether you are a skilled tradesman or a determined non-tradesman, this recruitment offers you a platform to serve your country, gain valuable experience, and grow within a respected institution.
Interested applicants are strongly advised to rely only on official Army channels particularly https://recruitment.army.mil.ng for updates and applications. Avoid fraudulent websites and individuals claiming to guarantee admission.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare diligently, stay physically fit, and follow instructions carefully during the recruitment process. The Nigerian Army rewards dedication, discipline, and hard work values that define true soldiers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Precious Adebayo
