No Excuses: Nigerian Army Demands 100% Pass in Elite Exam
Two hundred and sixty middle-ranking officers of the Nigerian Army are currently sitting for the Senior Staff Course Qualifying Examination 2025, a crucial gateway to higher command responsibilities.
The exam, held at the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps Centre, Ihejirika Auditorium, Jaji, is organised by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). It covers eight subjects — from tactics and low-intensity conflict to geopolitics and military law — aimed at testing each officer’s skill, knowledge, and leadership potential.
President of the Examination Board, Maj.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, stressed that integrity and merit would determine success. He warned against malpractice and reminded candidates they must score at least 50% in all subjects to qualify for the Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
“Most of you are on your first attempt, others on your second. You have a maximum of three attempts — no more,” Aligbe said, adding that top performers would receive Certificates of Excellence, Letters of Commendation, and cash rewards, with records sent to Army Headquarters for their personal files.
Aligbe challenged the officers: “I expect nothing short of a 100% pass rate.”
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Usman Yusuf, Commander of the Infantry Corps, thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his support and reminded candidates that success in the exam was critical to their future careers. He urged them to focus, avoid shortcuts, and give their best effort.
This examination will decide not just promotions, but the future leadership of the Nigerian Army.
