KADUNA — The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has dismissed allegations that qualified candidates were unfairly excluded from admission into its 78 Regular Course following the closure of its application portal, describing the claims as misleading and unfounded.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, maintained that the admission process was conducted transparently and that all eligible applicants were given ample time and equal opportunity to complete their registrations.
According to him, applications for the 78 Regular Course opened on November 28, 2025, and were initially scheduled to close on April 30, 2026, before the deadline was extended by an additional two weeks to May 15, 2026.
Kovangiya explained that candidates who scored 180 and above in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and selected the NDA as their first-choice institution were invited to proceed with the next stage of the admission process.
“Eligible candidates received email notifications on May 19, 2026, instructing them to register for the NDA Screening Test on or before May 24, 2026,” he stated.
He noted that details of the admission exercise, including application guidelines, timelines, and requirements, were extensively publicized through the Academy’s official website, admission portal, social media platforms, and direct email communications.
The spokesman emphasized that applicants were provided sufficient time to fulfill all registration requirements, including generating Remita Retrieval References (RRR), making payments, and submitting completed application forms.
He further revealed that candidates were consistently advised to monitor the Academy’s official communication channels for updates and important announcements throughout the admission period.
Addressing claims of favoritism, Kovangiya firmly denied allegations that some candidates received privileged information or special access to the registration process.
“The allegation that some candidates received preferential access to registration information or procedures is entirely unfounded. The Academy operates a transparent, merit-based and equitable admission process that gives all qualified applicants equal opportunity,” he said.
The NDA spokesperson added that the institution follows a structured and time-sensitive admission framework to ensure effective planning and smooth conduct of its screening and selection exercises.
He stressed that candidates who failed to complete their registration within the stipulated period could not be accommodated for the screening test scheduled for June 20.
Reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and excellence, Kovangiya urged members of the public to disregard misinformation and rely solely on official NDA communication channels for accurate information regarding admissions and recruitment exercises.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns from some prospective applicants who claimed they were unable to complete their registration before the portal closed. However, the Academy insists that due process was followed and that all eligible candidates were adequately informed throughout the admission cycle.
