NIGERIAN AIR FORCE OPENS 2026 RECRUITMENT FOR TRADESMEN AND NON-TRADESMEN

The Nigerian Air Force has commenced its 2026 recruitment exercise for eligible Nigerians seeking enlistment as tradesmen, non-tradesmen and women.

The recruitment exercise is part of efforts to strengthen the manpower of the service and provide qualified Nigerians with opportunities to begin careers in the military.

According to the recruitment information published by the Nigerian Air Force, interested applicants are expected to meet specific educational, age, physical and medical requirements before they can be considered for enlistment.

For applicants seeking admission under the non-tradesmen and women category, candidates are required to be between 18 and 22 years at the time of application. They must also possess at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings in WAEC, NECO, GCE, NABTEB or other recognised equivalent examinations.

Applicants under the tradesmen and women category must be between 18 and 27 years. Candidates with ND or NCE qualifications are expected to possess at least a lower credit from accredited institutions, in addition to the required secondary school credits.

Those applying for technical positions such as drivers and other trades that require specialised certification must also provide relevant trade test certificates. Applicants for driving positions are required to possess a valid driving licence.

The Air Force also stated that candidates must be Nigerian citizens and must meet its medical, physical and psychological standards. Male applicants are required to be at least 1.66 metres tall, while female applicants must be at least 1.63 metres.

Applicants must also be free from previous criminal convictions and are expected to provide the necessary documentation during the recruitment process.

For sportsmen and sportswomen, additional evidence of professional sporting experience, including relevant certificates and medals, is required.

The recruitment process will include further screening and a zonal general aptitude test for candidates who successfully progress through the initial stages. The date and other details concerning the aptitude test will be communicated through the official recruitment portal.

The Nigerian Air Force has also warned prospective applicants against fraudsters who may attempt to collect money in exchange for recruitment slots or assistance. The recruitment process is conducted without payment, and applicants are advised to rely only on official NAF recruitment channels for information.

The latest recruitment exercise provides opportunities for qualified young Nigerians to join the Air Force and undergo military training while developing professional skills in both technical and non-technical fields.

Successful candidates will be required to meet all screening conditions before being admitted for military training, after which they can begin service under the Nigerian Air Force.

The exercise comes as Nigeria's armed forces continue efforts to improve manpower and operational capacity amid ongoing security challenges across different parts of the country.