NDA accused of admission exclusion, reacts

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has dismissed reports claiming prospective candidates were excluded from admission into its 78 Regular Course due to portal closure.

The Academy described the allegations as inaccurate and inconsistent with the realities of its admission process.

The Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, made this known in a statement he issued on Sunday.

Kovangiya said the application portal remained accessible throughout registration.

He said applications for the 78 Regular Course opened on November 28, 2025 and closed on April 30, 2026 before being extended to May 15.

According to him, candidates who scored 180 and above in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and selected NDA as their first choice were invited.

“Eligible candidates were sent emails on May 19, 2026, directing them to register for the NDA Screening Test not later than May 24, 2026,” he said.

Kovangiya said application procedures, timelines, and requirements were widely publicised through the Academy’s website, portal, social media platforms, and emails.

He noted that candidates had adequate time to complete registration requirements, including generating Remita Retrieval References, paying fees, and submitting forms.

The spokesman added that applicants were repeatedly advised to monitor official communication channels for updates and important notices.

He also dismissed allegations that some candidates received privileged information or preferential access during the admission process.

He said: “The allegation that some candidates received preferential access to registration information or procedures is entirely unfounded.

“The Academy maintains a transparent, merit-based and equitable admission process that affords all eligible applicants equal opportunity.”

Kovangiya said the NDA operates a structured, time-bound admission process to ensure effective planning and conduct of screening exercises.

He said candidates who failed to complete registration within the stipulated timeframe could not be accommodated for the June 20 screening test.

The spokesman reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to transparency, fairness and excellence in its admission process.

He urged the public to rely only on information disseminated through the Academy’s official communication channels.