Military secondary schools in Nigeria are institutions established by the Nigerian Armed Forces to provide high-quality academic and military-based training to young students. These schools are known for discipline, leadership development, and academic excellence.
If you're a parent seeking a structured and future-oriented educational path for your child, military secondary schools are a great option.
In this guide, we present the top 10 military secondary schools in Nigeria, including their locations, admission requirements, and contact details.
1. Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria
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Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
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Established: 1954
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Type: All-boys
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Ownership: Nigerian Army
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Overview: NMS is one of the oldest and most prestigious military secondary schools in Nigeria. It offers a six-year curriculum that combines standard academic work with military training.
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Admission: Common Entrance Examination, physical and medical screening
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Website: https://www.nms1954.sch.ng
2. Air Force Secondary School (AFSS), Ikeja
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Location: Ikeja, Lagos State
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Ownership: Nigerian Air Force
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Type: Co-educational
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Overview: AFSS Ikeja is a top-tier school that blends academics with moral and military discipline. It has boarding facilities and produces students who excel in WAEC and NECO exams.
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Admission: Entrance exam and medical test
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Contact: Nigerian Air Force Education Department
3. Navy Secondary School, Ojo
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Location: Ojo, Lagos State
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Ownership: Nigerian Navy
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Type: Co-educational
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Overview: The school provides a structured learning environment with high moral and academic standards.
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Admission: Conducted by the Directorate of Naval Education
4. Command Secondary School, Kaduna
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Location: Kaduna State
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Ownership: Nigerian Army Education Corps
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Type: Co-educational
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Overview: This Command school is known for producing disciplined and academically strong students.
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Admission: Through Command Secondary Schools portal – https://dcss.sch.ng
5. Air Force Military School, Jos
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Location: Jos, Plateau State
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Type: All-boys
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Ownership: Nigerian Air Force
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Overview: A prestigious school that prepares young boys for leadership in both military and civilian life.
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Features: Rigorous academic training, aviation exposure, and leadership programs
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Website: https://www.afmsj.edu.ng
6. Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Abeokuta
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Location: Abeokuta, Ogun State
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Type: Co-educational
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Ownership: Nigerian Navy
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Overview: A model Navy school offering a conducive learning atmosphere and solid academic foundation.
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Admission: Entrance exams held annually nationwide
7. Command Secondary School, Ibadan
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Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
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Ownership: Nigerian Army
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Overview: One of the well-performing schools under the Nigerian Army Education Corps.
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Admission Portal: https://dcss.sch.ng
8. Navy Secondary School, Calabar
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Location: Calabar, Cross River State
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Type: Co-educational
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Ownership: Nigerian Navy
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Overview: Offers strong academic training and naval discipline.
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Admission: Organized by the Directorate of Naval Education
9. Air Force Comprehensive School, Uyo
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Location: Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
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Type: Co-educational
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Ownership: Nigerian Air Force
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Overview: A growing reputation for academic excellence and solid character development
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Admission: Entrance exams and health screening
10. Command Day Secondary School, Abuja
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Location: Abuja, FCT
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Ownership: Nigerian Army
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Overview: Located in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory, this day school offers quality education and military-style discipline.
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Admission: Via Command Schools application portal
Admission Requirements for Military Secondary Schools in Nigeria
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Minimum Age: 10 years (varies slightly by school)
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Entrance Exams: Candidates must pass an academic entrance exam
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Medical Examination: Students undergo physical and medical tests
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Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen
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Parent’s Status: Some schools give preference to children of serving military personnel
Benefits of Attending Military Secondary Schools in Nigeria
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Academic and moral discipline
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Leadership and physical development
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High success rate in national exams
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Exposure to military values and professionalism
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Potential pathway to Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or other military institutions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are military secondary schools only for children of soldiers?
No. Most military secondary schools in Nigeria are open to civilian children, though some may give preference to military families.
2. How much is the school fees for military secondary schools?
Fees vary by school and range from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per term depending on the school, boarding option, and student status (civilian or military ward).
3. How can I apply for admission?
Applications are typically online. For Command schools, visit https://dcss.sch.ng. Navy and Air Force schools announce forms through their official channels.
4. Are girls allowed in military secondary schools?
Yes. Most schools are co-educational, though some like Nigerian Military School, Zaria and Air Force Military School, Jos admit only boys.
5. What is the best military secondary school in Nigeria?
Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria and Air Force Military School, Jos are widely regarded as the top two military schools in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Military secondary schools in Nigeria offer more than just education—they instill discipline, leadership, and national values. If you want your child to grow into a responsible and patriotic leader, enrolling in one of these top military schools is a strong step forward.
Make sure to follow the application timelines and prepare your child well for the exams and screening.
