Best-Rated Military & Para-Military Jobs For B.Sc., Hnd Holders In Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
Are you a Nigerian graduate with a B.Sc. or HND, and you’re thinking of joining the military or paramilitary? You’re in the right place. Contrary to what many believe, the uniformed forces don’t only recruit SSCE holders—there are exclusive officer-level opportunities for degree holders that come with better pay, faster promotions, and leadership roles.
In this 2025 updated guide, we’ll walk you through the best-rated military and para-military jobs for B.Sc. and HND holders in Nigeria, the recruitment process, salary expectations, training, and how to get started.
Why Consider a Military or Para-Military Career as a Graduate?
Choosing a career in the armed or paramilitary forces as a graduate offers:
- Leadership and officer roles
- Job security and government benefits
- Pension and housing schemes
- Opportunities for international peacekeeping missions
- Respect and national recognition
List of Best-Rated Military & Para-Military Jobs for B.Sc. & HND Holders in Nigeria
Job Role |
Organization |
Minimum Qualification |
Entry Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) |
Nigerian Army |
B.Sc./HND |
Lieutenant |
₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
Direct Short Service (DSSC) |
Nigerian Navy |
B.Sc./HND |
Sub-Lieutenant |
₦180,000 – ₦230,000 |
DSSC / Airmen Cadre |
Nigerian Air Force |
B.Sc./HND |
Flying Officer |
₦190,000 – ₦240,000 |
Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) PG Entry |
Nigerian Armed Forces |
B.Sc. (for PG course) |
Officer Cadet |
₦180,000+ (after commission) |
Nigeria Police Force (ASP Cadre) |
Nigeria Police |
B.Sc./HND + NYSC |
Assistant Superintendent (ASP) |
₦190,000 – ₦210,000 |
NSCDC Superintendent Cadre |
Civil Defence Corps |
B.Sc./HND |
Assistant Superintendent II |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
Nigeria Immigration (Graduate Entry) |
Immigration Service |
B.Sc./HND |
Assistant Superintendent |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
Nigeria Customs (Graduate Level) |
Customs Service |
B.Sc./HND |
Assistant Superintendent |
₦190,000 – ₦210,000 |
Correctional Service (Graduate Cadre) |
Nigerian Correctional Service |
B.Sc./HND |
Superintendent Cadre |
₦180,000 – ₦200,000 |
Federal Fire Service (Inspector Cadre) |
Federal Fire Service |
B.Sc./HND |
Inspector/Superintendent |
₦170,000 – ₦190,000 |
General Requirements for Graduate-Level Entry
To qualify for most officer or graduate-level positions in military/paramilitary agencies, candidates must meet:
- B.Sc./HND in relevant discipline
- NYSC discharge certificate or exemption letter
- Minimum Second Class Lower or Upper Credit
- Age: 22–30 years (varies by agency)
- Height: 1.65m (Male), 1.60m (Female)
- Physical and medical fitness
- Clean criminal record
What to Expect During Training
Graduate-level recruits go through rigorous training—both physical and academic. Expect:
- Military drills & discipline
- Leadership training
- Field survival and security techniques
- Law, ethics, and internal security classes
Duration:
- DSSC (Army/Navy/Air Force): 6 – 9 months
- Paramilitary Graduate Cadres: 3 – 6 months
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official recruitment portal of the organization.
- Register and upload required documents (CV, credentials, NYSC cert, passport, etc.)
- Download referee/guarantor forms
- Attend screening (physical & aptitude test)
- Undergo medical check-up
- Wait for shortlist and final documentation
Pro Tip: Only apply via official websites. Avoid agents or paid application services—they are mostly scams.
Key Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Prepare for aptitude tests—most DSSC and para-military recruitments include maths, English, and general knowledge questions.
- Keep your documents and certificates ready (Birth cert, NYSC, degree, local government cert, etc.)
- Engage in light physical exercise ahead of screening to build stamina
- Practice discipline and leadership thinking—interviews often test this
FAQs: Graduate Military & Para-Military Jobs in Nigeria
❓ Can I join the Nigerian Army with a B.Sc.?
Yes. You can apply through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC), which is the entry point for graduates into officer roles.
❓ Is NYSC mandatory for graduate-level military jobs?
Yes. A valid NYSC certificate or exemption letter is required for most B.Sc./HND roles in both military and paramilitary.
❓ What’s the age limit for graduate military jobs?
Typically 22–30 years, but some roles (e.g., Police ASP, NSCDC) may accept slightly older candidates. Always check the specific recruitment ad.
❓ Can I switch from paramilitary to military?
Not directly. However, internal transfer or reapplication is possible if you meet new requirements.
❓ Are these jobs open to women?
Yes! All roles listed are open to both men and women. Female graduates are actively encouraged to apply.
Official Recruitment Portals (2025)
Organization |
Recruitment Website |
Nigerian Army DSSC |
recruitment.army.mil.ng |
Nigerian Navy DSSC |
joinnigeriannavy.com |
Nigerian Air Force DSSC |
nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng |
Nigeria Police Force |
policerecruitment.gov.ng |
NSCDC |
https://www.cdfipb.careers/ |
Immigration/Customs |
customs.gov.ng |
Correctional Service |
interior.gov.ng |
Federal Fire Service |
https://www.cdfipb.careers/ |
Conclusion: Your Degree Is a Weapon — Use It for Service!
A military or paramilitary career is one of the most respected, stable, and impactful paths for B.Sc. and HND holders in Nigeria. Whether you're aiming for a direct officer commission in the Army, Air Force, or Navy, or a superintendent role in NSCDC or Immigration, your academic qualification gives you a head start to serve and lead.
Now that you know the opportunities, don’t sleep on it. Polish your CV, prep for tests, get fit—and serve Nigeria with pride.