Best-Rated Military & Para-Military Jobs For Ssce Holders In Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
Are you an SSCE holder dreaming of wearing the uniform and serving Nigeria? You’re not alone! The Nigerian military offers exciting job opportunities for passionate and physically fit young people—even with just an SSCE (WAEC/NECO) certificate. In this post, we’ll explore the best-rated military jobs for SSCE holders in Nigeria, how to apply, training expectations, salaries, and tips for success.
Can You Join the Nigerian Military with Just SSCE?
Yes, you can. Many military and paramilitary organizations in Nigeria accept SSCE (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) holders for non-officer roles. These positions usually fall under the “recruit” category, meaning you’ll begin from the ground up, but there are opportunities to grow through ranks with commitment and discipline.
Best-Rated Military & Para-Military Jobs for SSCE Holders in Nigeria
Here are the top-rated military jobs you can apply for as an SSCE holder:
Military Job |
Branch |
Basic Requirements |
Starting Rank |
Nigeria Army Recruit |
Nigerian Army |
SSCE with 5 credits including English & Math |
Private |
Nigerian Navy Ratings (Non-Tradesmen) |
Nigerian Navy |
SSCE/NECO/NABTEB with relevant credits |
Ordinary Seaman |
Nigeria Air Force Airmen/Airwomen |
Nigerian Air Force |
Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE/NECO |
Aircraftman/Woman |
Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA - Non-Regular) |
NDA |
SSCE, physical fitness, aptitude test |
Cadet (Later becomes Officer) |
Nigerian Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) |
Paramilitary |
5 SSCE credits, age 18–30, physically fit |
Corps Assistant Cadre |
Nigeria Police Constable |
Nigeria Police Force (NPF) |
5 credits incl. English and Math |
Police Constable |
Nigeria Immigration Service (Recruit) |
Paramilitary |
SSCE with 5 credits, height/age criteria |
Assistant Cadre |
Nigeria Customs Service (Assistant Cadre) |
Paramilitary |
SSCE with 5 credits in core subjects |
Customs Assistant |
Nigerian Correctional Service (Prison) |
Paramilitary |
5 credits incl. English & Biology preferred |
Assistant Cadre |
Nigeria Fire Service (Fireman) |
Paramilitary |
SSCE, age 18–30, physically fit |
Fire Assistant Cadre |
What Are the Basic Requirements?
Although specific requirements vary slightly per force, here’s a general checklist:
- Minimum of 5 credit passes in SSCE (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
- Age: Usually between 18–26 (some go up to 30)
- Height: Minimum 1.65m for males, 1.60m for females
- Medical and physical fitness is mandatory
- Clean criminal record
Salary Expectations for SSCE-Level Recruits
Here's a quick estimate of what you can expect to earn at entry-level ranks:
Military Branch |
Entry Rank |
Monthly Salary (₦) |
Nigerian Army |
Private |
₦50,000 – ₦65,000 |
Nigerian Navy |
Ordinary Seaman |
₦45,000 – ₦60,000 |
Nigerian Air Force |
Aircraftman/Woman |
₦45,000 – ₦65,000 |
Nigeria Police |
Constable |
₦43,000 – ₦55,000 |
Civil Defence (NSCDC) |
Corps Assistant |
₦45,000 – ₦55,000 |
Immigration/Customs/Fire |
Assistant Cadre |
₦45,000 – ₦60,000 |
Correctional Service |
Assistant Cadre |
₦45,000 – ₦55,000 |
Note: These figures are approximate and may vary based on allowances and postings.
What to Expect During Training
Military and paramilitary training is no walk in the park. You’ll undergo:
- Physical drills (running, push-ups, obstacle courses)
- Weapon handling (military only)
- Discipline and combat simulations
- Classroom sessions (laws, rules of engagement, ethics)
Duration ranges between 3 to 6 months, depending on the force.
How to Apply for Military Jobs as an SSCE Holder
Follow these steps:
- Watch official recruitment portals (e.g., army.mil.ng, airforce.mil.ng)
- Register online using valid documents and passport photo
- Print application forms and guarantor forms
- Attend physical screening at designated centers
- Prepare for exams (especially for NPF, NSCDC, Navy, NDA)
- Medical screening and final shortlisting
Avoid scammers! Never pay anyone for military job applications.
Top Tips to Stand Out During Recruitment
- Get fit early: Start jogging and training weeks before
- Practice past questions: Especially for written aptitude tests
- Gather your documents: SSCE result, birth cert, state of origin, etc.
- Be honest: Fake documents or info will get you disqualified
Paramilitary vs Military – What’s the Difference?
Aspect |
Military (e.g., Army) |
Paramilitary (e.g., NSCDC) |
Main role |
Defence, warfare |
Internal security & enforcement |
Training |
Intense combat |
Security enforcement, not war |
Career Progression |
More structured and global |
More local-based roles |
Posting Locations |
May serve abroad or conflict zones |
Mostly within Nigeria |
Current Military Recruitment Portals (2025)
Force |
Recruitment Website |
Nigerian Army |
recruitment.army.mil.ng |
Nigerian Navy |
joinnigeriannavy.com |
Nigerian Air Force |
nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng |
Nigerian Police Force |
policerecruitment.gov.ng |
Civil Defence/NSCDC |
https://www.cdfipb.careers/ |
Nigeria Immigration/Customs |
customs.gov.ng |
FAQs About Military Jobs for SSCE Holders in Nigeria
❓ Can a female SSCE holder join the military in Nigeria?
Yes, females are encouraged to apply. Many SSCE-based roles are open to both genders as long as physical and academic requirements are met.
❓ Which military job is the easiest to get with SSCE?
Paramilitary roles like NSCDC or Fire Service tend to have less intense competition compared to the Nigerian Army or Air Force, but all require serious preparation.
❓ How long is the training for military recruits?
Most training lasts between 3 to 6 months, depending on the force and training school.
❓ Can I rise through the ranks with only SSCE?
Yes, but promotion may be slower without further education. You can later upgrade by writing NDA, Direct Short Service, or other internal exams.
Conclusion: Start Small, Grow Big in Uniform
Military jobs for SSCE holders in Nigeria are more than just employment—they are careers that instill discipline, purpose, and national pride. Whether you choose the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, or paramilitary bodies like NSCDC or Immigration, these roles can be stepping stones to a bigger future.
So lace up your boots, tighten your belt, and prepare to serve Nigeria with honour—even with just your SSCE!