When Nigerian Navy published its shortlist for the Direct Short Service Commission Course 29 (DSSC 29) computer‑based aptitude test, hopeful officers across the country felt a mix of excitement and relief. The list, released on 27 February 2024, covers nine examination centres that hosted the Feb 24, 2024, 7:30 am test, and it marks the transition from a massive online application drive to the hands‑on stage of selection.
Background and recruitment timeline
The DSSC 29 programme, formally known as Direct Short Service Commission Course 29, is the Navy’s flagship pathway for recruiting university graduates into fast‑track officer roles. The 2024 cycle began in September 2023 with a call for applications that attracted over 12,000 submissions nationwide. After an initial eligibility screening, candidates were invited to sit the computer‑based test (CBT) at regional centres in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and six other cities.
Following the CBT, a selection board interview was scheduled for early March, and the final board recommendation will dictate who proceeds to the 12‑week training course at the Naval College, Abuja. The entire pipeline is tuition‑free, a point the Navy stressed repeatedly in its official communiqué.
Shortlist details and documentation requirements
Applicants who made the cut were instructed to report to their designated centre with a packet of paperwork that includes photocopies of their degree certificates, NYSC discharge or exemption letters, two coloured passport‑size photos, and a parent/guardian consent form where applicable. Writing materials – 2B pencils, pens and erasers – were also listed as mandatory.
In a clear attempt to curb fraud, the Navy warned candidates that the entire process is free of charge and any request for money is a scam. "We have seen false agents demanding fees for seat allocation, and we want to protect our aspirants," the statement read.
Final selections by state and service branch
The shortlist featured several standout names. From Abia State, three candidates were later confirmed for training:
- Monday Noble Nwabugo – Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
- Nwokoro Thaddeus – Engineering
- Onyebuchi Darlington Chijindu – Medical
Other states saw similar outcomes. In Adamawa State, the Navy selected:
- David Ibrahim Agumdia – Medical
- Bitrus Jummai – ICT
- Bakari Abdulkadir Ismail – ICT
Akwa Ibom contributed one officer, Unanaowo Effiong Okon, while Yobe State produced three: Uba Nura Ibrahim (ICT) and two medical officers, Abdulkarim Ahmad Jaji and Tanko Najeeb Muntaka. Zamfara State also sent three candidates – Khamis Shafiu Umar (Medical), Lawal Umar (ICT) and Abubakar Aminu Buda (ICT).
Overall, the final list reflects the Navy’s commitment to federal character, drawing talent from the south‑south, south‑west, north‑central and north‑east regions alike.
Reactions, scams warning, and next steps
Social media lit up after the release. Many aspirants posted selfies with the official PDF, while others expressed anxiety about the upcoming interview stage. "I’m thrilled but nervous – the interview will be the real test," wrote one candidate from Enugu.
Security officials continued to stress vigilance. In the days following the announcement, several fake WhatsApp groups promised “guaranteed seats” for a fee of ₦15,000. The Navy’s public affairs office responded with a series of tweets reminding applicants to use only the official navy.gov.ng portal.
The next milestone is the interview panel scheduled for the first week of March. Successful candidates will receive a formal invitation and will be required to undergo a medical examination, background check, and a physical fitness assessment before reporting to the Naval College in Abuja.
Implications for the Nigerian Navy’s officer corps
Analysts see the DSSC 29 intake as a modest but strategic boost to the Navy’s technical capability. By earmarking slots for ICT, Engineering and Medical officers, the service is addressing long‑standing gaps in cyber‑defence, ship‑maintenance and onboard health services.
Former naval officer and Defence‑Studies lecturer Dr Adaeze Okafor noted, "The proportion of ICT officers in this batch is higher than any previous intake, which signals the Navy’s pivot toward digital warfare and network‑centric operations."
Looking ahead, the Navy plans to expand the DSSC programme to include more specialised tracks, such as maritime law and logistics, in line with its Vision 2030 blueprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many candidates were finally selected for DSSB 29 training?
A total of 21 candidates secured spots across the ICT, Medical, Legal and Engineering streams. The final roster reflects a balanced distribution among the northern and southern states, keeping with the Navy’s federal character policy.
What documents must shortlisted applicants bring on test day?
Shortlisted aspirants must present photocopies of their university degree, NYSC discharge or exemption certificate, two colour passport photographs, a signed parent/guardian consent form (if under 30), and a set of writing tools (2B pencil, pen and eraser). All items are to be submitted at the designated examination centre.
Are there any fees associated with the DSSC 29 selection process?
No. The Nigerian Navy has repeatedly clarified that the CBT, interview and training are completely free. Any individual demanding money for seat allocation is operating a scam and should be reported to the Navy’s helpline.
When and where will the interview stage take place?
The selection board interviews are slated for the first week of March 2024 and will be held at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja. Successful candidates will receive formal letters with exact dates, times and venue details.
What career paths are open to those who complete DSSC 29?
Graduates of DSSC 29 are commissioned as Sub‑Lieutenants and can serve in ICT, Medical, Legal, Engineering or other specialised branches of the Nigerian Navy, depending on their academic background and the service’s operational needs.
