Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Introduction

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), one of the key branches of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, continues its vital mission of defending Nigeria’s airspace, supporting national security operations, and ensuring peace within and beyond the nation’s borders. As part of its annual human capital development program, the NAF Recruitment for 2025/2026 offers thousands of young Nigerians the opportunity to serve their country with discipline, courage, and patriotism.

The upcoming 2025/2026 NAF recruitment exercise is particularly significant, given Nigeria’s ongoing modernization of its military capabilities and investment in next-generation defense technologies. With increasing interest among Nigerian youth to join the Air Force, this guide provides a detailed and authoritative breakdown of all you need to know about the NAF Recruitment Form, Application Portal, Eligibility, Salary Structure, Training Process, and FAQs.

Whether you are a graduate, tradesperson, or non-tradesperson, this comprehensive article will help you understand the entire recruitment process and improve your chances of selection.

A. History of the Nigerian Air Force

The Nigerian Air Force was formally established on 18 April 1964, following the passage of the Nigerian Air Force Act 1964. The vision was to build a robust and well-equipped air defense unit capable of providing aerial support to ground and naval forces.

Over the years, the NAF has grown into a modern, professional, and disciplined force with over 18,000 officers and airmen/airwomen. It plays a key role in counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and disaster relief operations both within Nigeria and across Africa.

B. Objectives of NAF Recruitment

Each recruitment exercise seeks to:

1. Strengthen Nigeria’s defense capacity.

2. Replace retiring or redeployed personnel.

3. Introduce new skills in aviation technology, engineering, logistics, and medical fields.

4. Empower Nigerian youths through career opportunities and technical training.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

C. NAF Training Institutions

Recruit recruits receive military training at institutions such as:

1. Nigerian Air Force Base Kaduna (NAF Base Kaduna)

2. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Kaduna

3. Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT)

Positions or Categories Available

The 2025/2026 NAF recruitment covers multiple entry categories designed for both degree holders and secondary school graduates.

A. Commissioned Officers (Direct Short Service Commission – DSSC)

This category targets university graduates with professional qualifications in specialized fields such as:

1. Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy

2. Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aeronautics)

3. ICT, Cybersecurity, and Communications

4. Accounting, Finance, and Procurement

5. Law, Public Relations, and Administration

Duration of training: 6 months intensive military training at the Nigerian Air Force Base Kaduna.

B. Non-Commissioned Officers (Airmen/Airwomen)

This category is open to applicants with O’Level, OND, or NCE qualifications who wish to serve as technicians, mechanics, security personnel, and other essential support roles.

Duration of training: 6 months–1 year basic military training.

C. Trades and Non-Tradesmen/Women

1. Tradesmen/Women: Must possess a trade test certificate or technical qualification (e.g., mechanics, welders, electricians).

2. Non-Tradesmen/Women: Must possess a minimum of five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics.

Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for the Nigerian Air Force Recruitment 2025/2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

A. General Requirements

1. Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.

2. Must possess a National Identity Number (NIN) or valid means of identification.

3. Must be medically, physically, and mentally fit.

4. Must not have any criminal record.

5. Must be single at the time of application.

6. Height requirement:

   1. Male: Not less than 1.66 meters.

   2. Female: Not less than 1.63 meters.

B. Age Requirements

1. Non-Tradesmen/Women: 18–22 years.

2. Tradesmen/Women: 18–25 years.

3. DSSC Applicants: 22–35 years depending on the profession.

C. Educational Qualifications

1. Non-Trades: Minimum of five credits (including English and Mathematics) in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB).

2. Trades: Minimum of OND, NCE, or trade test certificate in relevant fields.

3. DSSC: Bachelor’s degree, HND, or professional license in specialized fields.

D. Required Documents

1. Birth certificate or age declaration.

2. Local government identification letter.

3. Educational certificates.

4. Passport photographs.

5. Attestation form signed by a reputable Nigerian citizen (e.g., clergy, officer, or civil servant).

Salary Structure and Benefits

The Nigerian Air Force offers one of the most structured and attractive salary systems within the military. Salaries are determined by rank, years of service, and qualifications.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Other Benefits

1. Free housing within NAF barracks.

2. Comprehensive healthcare and insurance.

3. Pension and gratuity.

4. Subsidized food and transport.

5. Local and international training opportunities.

Application Procedure

A. How to Apply

1. Visit the official recruitment portal: https://nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng

2. Select your category (Airmen/Airwomen or DSSC).

3. Read the instructions carefully.

4. Complete the online application form.

5. Upload required documents (credentials, passport, ID, etc.).

6. Print out the Acknowledgment Slip and Attestation Form.

B. Important Notes

1. Application is completely free.

2. Multiple submissions may lead to disqualification.

3. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email and SMS.

Screening and Selection Process

The recruitment process involves several stages designed to ensure only qualified applicants are enlisted.

A. Shortlisting

Only candidates who meet eligibility criteria will be shortlisted for the next phase.

B. Zonal Screening

Screening exercises take place in selected Air Force bases nationwide. Activities include:

1. Physical fitness test.

2. Medical examination.

3. Document verification.

4. Aptitude test.

C. Final Selection and Training

Successful candidates will undergo Basic Military Training (BMT), focusing on:

1. Physical conditioning.

2. Weapon handling and discipline.

3. Air operations fundamentals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will NAF Recruitment 2025/2026 start?
The official recruitment portal is expected to open between January and March 2025.

2. How can I apply for NAF recruitment?
Visit the official website at https://nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng.

3. Is the NAF form free?
Yes, the application is completely free of charge.

4. What is the required qualification for airmen/airwomen?
At least five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics.

5. How do I know if I am shortlisted?
Check the official portal regularly and your registered email address.

6. What is the training duration?
Typically 6 months to 1 year, depending on category.

7. Can married applicants apply?
No, only single applicants are eligible.

8. Is there age relaxation for DSSC?
Yes, professionals like doctors or pilots may apply up to age 35.

9. What should I wear for screening?
Plain white T-shirt, shorts, and canvas shoes.

10. How can I prepare for the NAF aptitude test?
Study current affairs, mathematics, and English comprehension.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Modernization and Strategic Role (2010–2025)

From 2010 onward, the NAF accelerated modernization driven by regional security challenges and the need for enhanced air mobility, reconnaissance and electronic warfare capabilities. Investment priorities included:

1. Upgrading transport fleets and acquiring multirole combat aircraft.

2. Expanding technical training centres to support avionics and cyber defence.

3. Strengthening logistics, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and airlift capacity.

These developments increased demand for technically trained personnel not just pilots but avionics technicians, maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, cybersecurity officers, and logistics planners. The 2025/2026 recruitment therefore targets a broader skills mix than earlier intakes.

NAF’s Organizational Structure (Recruitment Relevance)

Key NAF commands and units that recruit and deploy personnel include:

1. Air Component Commands (Combat and Transport wings)

2. Operational Support Commands (Logistics, Maintenance, Air Traffic)

3. Training and Doctrine Command (basic & advanced training)

4. Medical and Humanitarian Response Units

Understanding this structure helps applicants tailor applications (for example, engineering graduates targeting Maintenance Command or IT graduates aiming at Cyber/Communications Units).

 Detailed Training Curriculum (What Recruits Learn)

Basic Military Training (BMT) 6–12 weeks (All Categories)

Core modules:

1. Military discipline, drill and ceremony, and customs.

2. Physical fitness programs (endurance, calisthenics, obstacle courses).

3. Basic weapons handling and marksmanship safety.

4. Fieldcraft, first-aid and casualty evacuation basics.

5. Military law, values, and ethics.

Technical & Professional Training (Post-BMT)

Duration varies by role (3–18 months).

1. Aviation Mechanics & Avionics: aircraft systems, engine maintenance, hydraulics, composite repairs, avionics troubleshooting, use of maintenance data systems.

2. Pilot Training Pathway (DSSC/Direct Entry): ground school, flight simulators, elementary flying, instrument flying, and type-rating for specific aircraft (duration depends on funding and aircraft allocation).

3. Medical Training: military medical procedures, trauma care, aeromedical evacuation protocols, and field hospital operations.

4. Communications & Cybersecurity: radio operations, encryption, network security, incident response.

5. Logistics & Supply Chain: inventory management, procurement procedures, and NATO-standard supply protocols.

Leadership & Professional Development

1. Junior leadership courses for corporals and sergeants.

2. Officer development modules for DSSC graduates (command, strategy, international law).

3. English for Aviation and technical English where necessary.

Selection Timeline & Typical Recruitment Calendar

While exact dates will be posted on the official portal, a standard NAF recruitment calendar typically follows this pattern (useful for applicants planning readiness):

1. Announcement & Portal Opening: January–March (forms go live).

2. Application Window (Online): 4–6 weeks.

3. Shortlisting & Verification: 2–4 weeks after closing.

4. Zonal Screening & CBT: May–July (week-by-week in zones).

5. Medical Panels & Final Interview: June–August.

6. Training Commencement (First Intake): September–October.

7. Additional Intakes (If Required): January–March next year.

Applicants should treat the portal announcement as authoritative and be ready to travel for zonal screening when shortlisted.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Zonal Screening Centres: State-by-State (Practical List)

NAF conducts zonal screenings in major, secure locations across the federation. Typical centres (with example usages) include:

1. North Central: Kaduna (NAF Base Kaduna), Minna (for some exercises)

2. North East: Maiduguri (regional air force presence), Gombe

3. North West: Kano (NAF facilities), Kaduna sub-centres

4. South West: Lagos (NAF Logistics Base, Ikeja), Ibadan (selected medical checks)

5. South East: Enugu (zonal screening hub), Owerri (verification desk)

6. South South: Port Harcourt (NAF staging center), Calabar (logistics)

7. FCT: Abuja (central verification and medical panel)

Tip: Only travel to centres specified on your official shortlisting notice. NAF will not ask applicants to pay for screening at private locations.

Medical Fitness Detailed Requirements & Common Disqualifiers

Standard Medical Tests

1. Full clinical examination and medical history.

2. Vision screening (correctable vision may be acceptable for some trades; pilot roles have stricter standards).

3. Hearing assessment (audiometry).

4. Blood tests (HBV, HCV, HIV screening as per policy).

5. Chest X-ray and respiratory function tests.

6. Urinalysis and general biochemical profile.

7. Orthopaedic and neurological examination.

Fitness Failures that Commonly Disqualify

1. Uncontrolled chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension).

2. Severe visual impairment not correctable to required standards (particularly for aircrew).

3. Significant hearing loss.

4. Evidence of drug or substance dependence.

5. Major cardiovascular abnormalities.

 Preparing for Medicals

1. Fast (8–12 hours) before blood tests when advised.

2. Avoid alcohol and heavy physical exertion 48 hours prior.

3. Bring prior medical records and vaccination history.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

Physical Fitness Preparation Plan (12-Week Regimen)

Applicants who prepare physically significantly improve pass rates in the physical screening. A sample 12-week progressive plan:

Weeks 1–4: Foundation

1. Cardiovascular: Run 20–25 minutes, 3×/week (building to steady 3 km).

2. Strength: Bodyweight squats, push-ups (3 sets × 8–12 reps), planks (3×30s).

3. Flexibility: 15 min dynamic/stretching after sessions.

Weeks 5–8: Build Endurance & Strength

1. Runs: 3–5 km steady, 3×/week; include interval sprints once/week.

2. Strength: Add lunges, assisted pull-ups, and increase push-ups (4×12–15).

3. Core: 4×45–60s planks; add side planks.

Weeks 9–12: Specific Conditioning & Mock Tests

1. Time-trial runs: Aim 2.4 km under 12–14 minutes (aspirational target depending on age).

2. Circuit training: 30–40 minutes (burpees, high-knees, mountain climbers).

3. Simulated obstacle training: climbs, balance, timed push-ups and sit-ups.

4. Rest: 1–2 rest days/week and active recovery.

Nutrition & Recovery: Hydrate, balanced diet (lean protein, complex carbs), 7–8 hours sleep.

Sample CBT Topics & Mock Questions

NAF CBTs assess reasoning, basic maths, comprehension, and general knowledge. Below are sample areas with example questions to practice.

 Numerical Reasoning

1. If a vehicle travels 180 km in 3 hours, what is its average speed? (Answer: 60 km/h)

2. Convert 5/8 to decimal form. (Answer: 0.625)

 Verbal Reasoning & Comprehension

Read a short paragraph on aviation maintenance and answer multiple-choice questions about main ideas and inference.

Sample: “The maintenance team discovered a crack in the wing strut. They recommended grounding the aircraft until repairs were completed.”
Question: What immediate action did the team recommend? (Answer: Ground the aircraft)

General Knowledge & Current Affairs

1. Who is the current Chief of the Air Staff? (Answer: check latest official source — applicants must verify current office-holders via official NAF channels.)

2. Basic geography: Name Nigeria’s capital and at least two neighbouring countries.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Recruitment 2025/2026

 Logical Reasoning

1. Pattern recognition sequences, simple syllogisms, and cause-effect questions.

Practice resources: past NAF CBT samples (when available), general aptitude books (Verbal & Numerical reasoning), online timed quizzes.

Application Checklist: Complete (Printable)

Before applying and attending screening, ensure you have the following:

Documents to Upload/Bring

1. Completed online application Acknowledgment Slip (printed).

2. Attestation Form (signed by named referees).

3. JAMB result (if applicable for DSSC or sponsored education entry).

4. Degree / HND / OND / WAEC / NECO certificates (originals + photocopies).

5. NYSC discharge/exemption certificate (where required).

6. Birth certificate or age declaration (courtesy of National Population Commission or affidavit).

7. Two (2) recent passport-size photographs (white background).

8. NIN slip or national ID.

9. Local government identification/letter of origin.

10. Valid means of identification (driver’s license or passport).

11. Medical fitness certificate if available (optional pre-check).

12. Police clearance (if requested at final stages).

Pre-Screening Personal Preparation

1. Ensure correct attire: white T-shirt, shorts, trainers/sports shoes.

2. Fasten any loose jewellery; bring minimal items.

3. Arrive with comfortable clothes and a water bottle.

4. Bring small cash for transport; NAF does not accept cash payments for processing.

Testimonies

Testimony 1 – John, Air Craftsman

“I joined NAF through the 2021 intake, and it transformed my life. The discipline, training, and career growth are exceptional.”

Testimony 2 – Amina, DSSC Officer

“As a medical doctor, I was commissioned through DSSC. The experience has been rewarding, and I’m proud to serve Nigeria.”

Testimony 3 – Chukwudi, Technician

“With my OND in electrical engineering, I joined as a tradesman. The Air Force gave me technical training and job security.”

Testimony 4 – Blessing, Admin Officer

“The NAF recruitment process was transparent and merit-based. My advice: follow official instructions only.”

Testimony 5 – Usman, Pilot Officer

“Becoming a pilot was my dream. Through dedication and training, the Air Force made it possible.”

Conclusion

The Nigerian Air Force Recruitment 2025/2026 presents a unique opportunity for patriotic Nigerians to build a lifelong, meaningful career in national service. With competitive salaries, world-class training, and professional growth, joining the Air Force is both a call to duty and a path to personal advancement.

Interested candidates should remain vigilant, apply only through the official portal, and avoid fraudulent intermediaries. Ensure all credentials are accurate and complete, maintain physical fitness, and prepare well for the screening and aptitude tests.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently pursue your goal of becoming part of the elite Nigerian Air Force family serving with honor, discipline, and integrity.