How Nigerians Can Join British Army As Recruitment Of Commonwealth Citizens Begins

The British Army has officially opened its doors to Commonwealth citizens, including Nigerians, inviting them to join its ranks.

The recruitment window, which began August 19, 2024, will remain open until August 26, 2024.

The recruitment drive is particularly focused on filling roles such as musicians, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Royal Engineers Technicians and Tradesmen, and paratroopers. The British Army is highlighting the crucial contributions of Commonwealth soldiers, both past and present, emphasizing the integral role they play in maintaining the strength and diversity of the force.

Eligibility:

To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria. For soldiers, applicants must be at least 16 years old, with the assessment process starting as early as 15 years and 9 months. Those younger than 17 years and 6 months will be enrolled in the Army Foundation College before beginning standard training for Junior Soldiers. The maximum age for enlistment is 36 years. For officers, the age range is between 18 and 29 years, with higher age limits for certain specialist roles like doctors.

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Officer candidates need to have a minimum of 35 ALIS points from seven subjects, including a grade C/4 in English Language, Maths, and either Science or a foreign language, along with 72 UCAS Tariff points from three subjects.

A key element of the recruitment process is medical screening, particularly for Sickle Cell traits, which is prevalent among certain populations, including those from Commonwealth countries. While possessing the Sickle Cell Trait does not automatically disqualify candidates, those identified as higher risk will need to undergo further diagnostic blood tests before participating in the entry fitness tests. This step is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of all recruits.

Candidates must also adhere to specific fitness and lifestyle requirements. The recruitment process includes passing several fitness tests, such as the Multistage Fitness Test (Beep Test), Seated Ball Throw, and Mid Thigh Pull.

The British Army has provided guidance to help applicants achieve the required fitness levels, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking, and meeting Body Mass Index (BMI) requirements.

Regarding tattoos and piercings, the British Army allows tattoos under certain guidelines—they must not be offensive, obscene, or visible in a passport photo. While hand and neck tattoos are now permitted, tattoos on the head and face are not. Additionally, piercings that alter appearance, such as large flesh tunnels, may disqualify applicants, and all jewelry must be removed during physical activities.

The British Army also takes a rehabilitative approach to criminal convictions. Applicants must disclose any unspent convictions, as hiding them could result in prosecution later. However, the army recognize that certain convictions might be considered “spent” after a rehabilitation period.

For those not yet old enough to enlist, the Army Cadet Force offer a valuable opportunity to participate in military-themed activities, sports, and outdoor adventures. Cadets can develop survival skills, participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and earn additional qualifications, providing a strong foundation for a future military career.

The application process is strictly time-bound, with submissions accepted only between 19th and 26th August 2024. Candidates should be prepared to travel to the UK for further assessments in October and November 2024, with basic training set to begin between January and March 2025.

For more information and to apply, interested candidates are encouraged to visit the official British Army recruitment page.