British Army begins recruitment for Nigerians, others

The British Army is launching a special recruitment drive for Commonwealth citizens, including Nigerians, starting August 19, 2024, and running until August 26, 2024. This unique opportunity invites applications for roles such as musician, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineer, Royal Engineers Technician, Tradesman, and paratrooper.

Key Highlights:

• Roles Available: Positions in music, engineering, trades, and paratrooper roles are open. Musicians must meet specific performance standards detailed on the Army Musicians page.
   
• Application Requirement: Applicants must link their applications to the Recruit Bounty Referral Scheme, except those applying as musicians.
• Medical Screening: A critical part of the recruitment involves screening for Sickle Cell traits, which is relevant for candidates from certain Commonwealth countries. While having the Sickle Cell Trait doesn’t disqualify you, those identified as high risk will need a diagnostic blood test before entry fitness assessments.

 Eligibility Criteria

For Soldiers:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 16 years old, with a starting application age of 15 years and 7 months. Assessments can begin at 15 years and 9 months.
• Under 17 years and 6 months old will need to complete training at the Army Foundation College before regular entry training.
  Must enlist before reaching 36 years of age.

For Officers:

• Age: Must be between 18 and 29 years old. Higher age limits apply for specialist roles like doctors, with exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis for those over 30.
• Academic Requirements: 35 ALIS points from 7 subjects, including a minimum grade of C/4 in English Language, Maths, and either Science or a foreign language. Additionally, 72 UCAS Tariff points from 3 subjects are required.

Fitness and Lifestyle

Applicants must pass several fitness tests, including the Multistage Fitness Test (Beep Test), Seated Ball Throw, and Mid Thigh Pull. The Army provides guidelines to help candidates achieve the necessary fitness levels. A healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking and maintaining a balanced diet, is essential to meet BMI requirements.

Tattoos and Piercings

Tattoos are allowed under specific rules: they must not be offensive, obscene, or visible in passport photos. Hand and neck tattoos are now permitted, but head and face tattoos are not. Large piercings that alter appearance, such as flesh tunnels, may disqualify candidates. All jewelry must be removed during physical tests.

Criminal Convictions

The British Army adopts a rehabilitative stance on criminal convictions. Applicants must disclose all unspent convictions. Honesty is critical, as failure to disclose can lead to prosecution later.

Army Cadet Force

For those not yet eligible for Army enlistment, the Army Cadet Force offers a chance to engage in military-themed activities, sports, and outdoor adventures. Cadets can gain valuable skills, participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and achieve additional qualifications.

Application Process and Timeline

The application window is open from August 19, 2024, to August 26, 2024. Applications submitted outside this period will not be considered. Candidates should be prepared to travel to the UK for further assessment in October and November 2024, with basic training scheduled to begin between January and March 2025. 

Seize this rare opportunity to join the ranks of a distinguished military force and make a significant contribution to the British Army.

For more detailed information and to apply, interested candidates should visit the official british army recruitment page.