The Nigerian Army has announced a rescheduling of its 89 Regular Recruit Intake (89RRI) exercise for shortlisted candidates. Initially slated for June 2 to June 16, 2025, the recruitment exercise will now take place from June 8 to June 21, 2025, as confirmed by an official statement from the Nigerian Army’s verified X handle,
@HQNigerianArmy, on May 30, 2025. This change has sparked widespread attention among applicants eagerly awaiting their chance to serve in one of Africa’s most respected military institutions. For those who have applied, this is a critical moment to prepare, verify their status, and ensure compliance with the Army’s stringent recruitment guidelines.
Release of the 89RRI Shortlist: How to Check Your Status
On May 27, 2025, the Nigerian Army released the highly anticipated list of successful candidates for the 89RRI, covering both tradesmen/women and non-tradesmen/women. The list is now accessible through the Nigerian Army’s official recruitment portal at https://recruitment.army.mil.ng/drm. This portal serves as the central hub for all recruitment-related activities, ensuring transparency and accessibility for applicants across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
To check if you’ve been shortlisted, follow these straightforward steps:
-
Visit the Recruitment Portal: Navigate to https://recruitment.army.mil.ng/drm using a reliable internet connection.
-
Select Your State of Origin: The portal is organized by state to streamline the process. Choose your state from the provided options.
-
Review the List: Scroll through the list to locate your name. If selected, take note of any specific instructions, including required documents or additional steps for the upcoming screening.
-
Prepare for Screening: Successful candidates must attend the screening exercise in their respective states of origin, adhering to the new schedule of June 8 to June 21, 2025.
The Nigerian Army has emphasized that the recruitment process is entirely free of charge. Applicants are strongly cautioned against engaging with individuals or groups claiming to offer assistance in securing recruitment in exchange for payment. Such schemes are fraudulent and could jeopardize candidates’ chances of joining the Army.
Key Details of the 89RRI Screening Process
The 89RRI screening is a pivotal stage in the recruitment process, designed to identify candidates who meet the Nigerian Army’s high standards of physical fitness, mental acuity, and moral integrity. Unlike previous recruitment exercises, the 89RRI will not include a pre-selection computer-based test. Instead, the focus will be on in-person screenings conducted at designated centers in candidates’ states of origin.
To ensure a smooth screening process, candidates must come prepared with the following:
-
Original Educational Certificates: These include WAEC, NECO, or equivalent qualifications, verifying academic eligibility.
-
Valid Birth Certificate: A recognized birth certificate or age declaration is mandatory.
-
Other Required Documents: Candidates should carefully review the portal for a comprehensive list of documents, which may include identification cards, passports, and other certifications.
-
Physical and Moral Standards: Applicants must be free of tattoos and must not be affiliated with any cult, secret society, or fraternity, as these are grounds for disqualification.
The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to a fair and transparent recruitment process, urging candidates to rely solely on official channels for information. The warning against scams is particularly crucial in light of past incidents where fraudsters have exploited eager applicants. By sticking to verified sources like the recruitment portal and the Nigerian Army’s official social media accounts, candidates can protect themselves from misinformation and exploitation.
Why the Date Change Matters
The rescheduling of the 89RRI exercise from June 2–16 to June 8–21, 2025, reflects the Nigerian Army’s dedication to ensuring a well-organized and efficient recruitment process. While the specific reasons for the shift were not disclosed in the announcement, such adjustments often stem from logistical considerations, such as coordinating screening centers across the country or accommodating a large number of applicants. For candidates, this extra week provides additional time to prepare, gather required documents, and ensure they are in peak physical condition for the rigorous screening process.
The 89RRI is a gateway for thousands of young Nigerians to join the ranks of the Nigerian Army, a revered institution known for its role in maintaining national security, combating insurgency, and supporting peacekeeping missions across the continent. The opportunity to serve is not only a career path but also a chance to contribute to the nation’s stability and pride.
A Call to Action for Applicants
For those who applied for the 89RRI, now is the time to act. Visit the recruitment portal immediately to confirm your status and familiarize yourself with the requirements for the screening exercise. The Nigerian Army has made it clear that only those who adhere strictly to the guidelines will progress through the recruitment process. This includes arriving at the screening venue on time, presenting all required documents in their original form, and maintaining the discipline expected of a potential soldier.
Aspiring candidates should also stay vigilant against scams. The Nigerian Army has emphasized that no payment is required at any stage of the recruitment process. If approached by anyone claiming to offer preferential treatment or guaranteed selection in exchange for money, candidates should report such individuals to the authorities and avoid any interaction.
The Road to Becoming a Nigerian Soldier
The 89RRI is more than just a recruitment exercise—it’s a transformative opportunity for young Nigerians to embark on a journey of service, discipline, and patriotism. The Nigerian Army’s rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals join its ranks, ready to uphold the values of duty, honor, and courage.
As the new screening dates approach, candidates are encouraged to stay informed by regularly checking the official recruitment portal and following the Nigerian Army’s verified X handle (@HQNigerianArmy) for real-time updates. The period from June 8 to June 21, 2025, will be a defining moment for thousands of applicants, as they take their next steps toward a career in the Nigerian Army.
For those who make the cut, the journey will be challenging but rewarding. Serving in the Nigerian Army offers not only professional growth but also the chance to make a lasting impact on the nation. To all applicants: prepare diligently, stay focused, and approach the screening with the determination to succeed. Your future as a Nigerian soldier awaits!
Join our Whatsapp channel to stay updated always!