The Nigerian Army has officially kicked off its 2026 Senior Staff Course Qualifying Examination, a major milestone for officers aiming to climb the ranks and secure placements in prestigious military institutions worldwide. The critical assessment began on Sunday, August 2, 2026, and is running concurrently across two key locations: the Nigerian Defence Academy Post Graduate School in Kaduna and the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State.
As the exercises got underway, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, sent a strong message to the examination panel. He emphasized the need for absolute professionalism, transparency, and diligence, reminding those in charge that the integrity of the selection process must remain flawless.
According to details tracked by Zoyols News from updates shared by the Army’s training command public relations officer, Felicia Daniel, the military high command is leaving no room for compromise. Representing the Army Chief at the opening ceremony, Major General Peter Malla, who serves as the Examination President and Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command, reminded examiners that their decisions shape the future leadership of the army. Malla explained that the panel members were chosen strictly based on their proven competence and track records. He urged them to be exceptionally fair, highly objective, and strict in enforcing the rules.
This particular examination is widely regarded as a make-or-break hurdle for mid-career officers. Passing it is a mandatory prerequisite for anyone hoping to attend the highly competitive Senior Staff Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, as well as other elite defense academies globally. Major General Malla noted that the Command is working tirelessly to deliver an assessment that aligns perfectly with the strategic vision of the Chief of Army Staff.
Ensuring a seamless environment for the candidates has also been a top priority. Major General Godwin Mutkut, the Commander of the Infantry Corps Centre and host of this year’s exams, assured all candidates and observers that extensive measures have been put in place. He noted that comprehensive administrative, logistics, and security setups are fully operational to guarantee a safe, quiet, and highly organized environment throughout the testing period.
