Tanzania
Heading 2
Heading 2
Heading 2
DSS Recruitment 2025: Application, Past Questions & Offices Guide
Complete DSS 2025 guide: how to apply, requirements, ranks, past exam questions, sample application letter & DSS offices nationwide.
8/23/25, 5:36 AM
Quick Links – Jump to DSS
Introduction
The Department of State Services (DSS) – commonly called the State Security Service (SSS) – is Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency. It emerged from the Special Branch of the Nigeria Police in the 1940s and was formalised by the National Security Organization (NSO) Decree No. 16 of 1976. Decree No. 19 of 1986 later reorganised it into the SSS, Defence Intelligence Service, and National Intelligence Agency. The DSS/SSS has broad powers: preventing and detecting crimes against internal security, protecting classified information, investigating threats such as espionage, terrorism, or sabotage, and providing security for top government officials and critical infrastructure
Recruitment into the DSS draws significant public interest because the service plays a critical role in counter‑terrorism and internal security. Online rumors frequently circulate about the “next DSS recruitment” and “application portal.” As of August 2025, the DSS’s official careers page states that the service is not currently recruiting, and fact‑checkers noted that there is no official recruitment announcement.
This guide explains how recruitment normally works, what qualifications are required, how to prepare for the aptitude test, and where to find legitimate DSS offices. Always use official channels – scams and unofficial agents are rampant, so do not pay money or submit documents through social media or dubious websites.
DSS Recruitment 2025 – Requirements, Dates & Qualifications
While there is no open recruitment as of August 2025, understanding the eligibility criteria helps prospective applicants prepare ahead of any future announcement.
Citizenship & Age – Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth. Recruitment portals and job guides indicate that candidates should be between 18 and 30 years old, physically and mentally fit, with no criminal record
Education – The minimum qualification is WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate (five credits including English and Mathematics), although higher certificates (OND, HND, Bachelor’s degree) improve prospects. Candidates must present original copies of credentials during screening.
Height & Physical Standards – A general requirement for paramilitary agencies is that male candidates should be at least 1.7 m tall, females 1.64 m, with a chest measurement of 0.87 m or more for men. Applicants must be free from disabilities such as flat feet or serious medical conditions.
Character & Background Checks – Because DSS officers handle sensitive information, extensive background checks and security clearance are done. Applicants must show good character and be free from financial embarrassment.
Ranks & Qualifications – The DSS has sixteen ranks, ranging from Recruit to General. Entry‑level recruits (private/lance corporal) typically hold secondary‑school certificates, while officer ranks (Second Lieutenant and above) require higher education. Salaries range from ₦10 000–₦90 000 per month for non‑officers, ₦120 000–₦350 000 for junior officers, ₦300 000–₦550 000 for senior officers and up to ₦1.5 million for high‑ranking officers
Recruitment Timeline
DSS recruitment is traditionally low‑profile; forms are not always sold online. According to recruitment guides, the process often begins between July and October when vacancy notices are sent to state commands. Applicants typically submit handwritten applications and supporting documents directly to the DSS headquarters or their state command. Written aptitude tests and physical screening follow. Training usually commences several months after the selection list is released. Always monitor official channels for dates; do not rely on social media rumours.
How to Apply for DSS – Step‑by‑Step Guide
Important: As of August 2025, the DSS is not recruiting. The steps below describe the typical process when recruitment opens.
Visit the official DSS portal: When recruitment opens, announcements will be posted on the DSS website. Always verify the URL to avoid clones and phishing sites.
Create an applicant profile: Provide accurate personal information (full name, date of birth, contact details). Use a valid email and phone number for future communication.
Upload required documents: Scanned copies of educational certificates, birth certificate/age declaration, local government certificate of origin, national ID card or international passport, and two recent passport‑sized photographs are usually requested.
Submit a handwritten application letter: Applicants often need to attach a handwritten letter addressed to the Director‑General, Department of State Services, P.M.B. 253, Abuja. The letter should state the applicant’s age, qualifications, and the position sought (see template below)
Print confirmation slip: After submitting online, print or download the confirmation page. This proof of submission may be required at screening.
Watch out for notification: Successful applicants will be contacted via email/SMS for aptitude tests and interviews. Always check spam folders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using unofficial portals or paying money to “agents.” Recruitment is free – the DSS has warned against fraud
Submitting incomplete documentation or mismatched names on certificates.
Late application. Deadlines are strict; once the portal closes, applications are not accepted.
Ignoring height/age requirements. Many applicants are disqualified during physical screening for not meeting height or age limits.
DSS Past Questions & Exam Prep
The DSS aptitude test is a computer‑based multiple‑choice exam used to shortlist candidates. According to exam-prep site MyJobTests, the test assesses Mathematics, English Language, and General Knowledge. Practising past questions helps you familiarise yourself with the format, identify frequently tested topics, and manage time.
Sample DSS Questions
Mathematics:
A security file contains 480 pages. If an analyst reads 40 pages per day, how many days will it take to finish the file?
Answer: 480 ÷ 40 = 12 days.
Simplify: 3/5 + 2/3.
Answer: (3 × 3 + 2 × 5)/(5 × 3) = 19/15 = 1 4/15.
English Language:
Choose the word closest in meaning to “covert”:
A. open B. secret C. loud D. hostile
Answer: B. secret.
Identify the correctly punctuated sentence:
A. “Nigeria’s security agencies play key roles,” he said.
B. “Nigeria’s security agencies play key roles,” he said.
C. “Nigeria’s security agencies play key roles”, he said.
Answer: B.
General Knowledge / Current Affairs:
Who is Nigeria’s President as of August 2025?
Answer: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Which intelligence agency is responsible for external security and foreign intelligence?
Answer: National Intelligence Agency (NIA).
DSS Exam Preparation Tips
Practice regularly – Consistent practice under timed conditions improves speed and accuracy
Time management – The test is time‑bound; practise with a timer to allocate time across sections
Strengthen weak areas – Review past questions to identify topics you struggle with and focus on improving them
Stay updated on current affairs – General Knowledge questions often cover Nigerian history, politics, sports, and international events
Legitimate past question packs and online practice sessions are available on reputable exam‑prep websites like MyJobTests. Avoid free PDF links circulated on social media, as many are outdated or contain errors.
How to Write a DSS Application Letter
Applicants are usually required to submit a handwritten application letter addressed to the Director‑General. The format below follows Nigerian job‑application conventions
Your Address
(e.g., No. 10 Example Street, Garki, Abuja)
Date
The Director‑General
Department of State Services
National Headquarters, P.M.B. 253
Abuja, Nigeria.
Dear Sir/Madam,
Application for [Position]
I write to apply for the position of [insert position] in the Department of State Services. I am [age] years old and a native of [State]. I hold [highest qualification], obtained from [institution] in [year]. My attached credentials include photocopies of my birth certificate, school certificates, and National ID card.
I am physically and mentally fit, of good character, and have never been convicted of any offence. I am committed to national security and would be honoured to contribute to the DSS’s mandate.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
[Full Name]
Phone: [phone number]
Write neatly and attach photocopies of all supporting documents. Ensure the letter is addressed correctly; the DSS has warned applicants not to address letters to the wrong offices
DSS Offices Nationwide – Addresses & Contacts
The DSS operates commands in every state. Below is a mini directory of key offices and contact details.
Location | Address / Description | Notes |
Headquarters, Abuja | DSS HQ, 1 Maitama Avenue, P.M.B. 253, Maitama District, Abuja. | Main administrative headquarters; enquiries via +234 915 339 1309 / +234 915 339 1310 / +234 908 837 3514. |
Enugu State Command | 10 Park Avenue, GRA, Enugu. | Serves Enugu State; applicants in the South‑East can submit applications here when recruitment opens. |
Oyo State Command (Ibadan) | DSS office is located in the Alalubosa area of Ibadan. | Applicants in Oyo State should visit the command for application submission and enquiries. |
Rivers State Command (Port Harcourt) | DSS facility situated in Old GRA, Port Harcourt. | Handles security matters for Rivers State; often referenced in news reports. |
Imo State Command (Owerri) | DSS office located in Irete community, Owerri West LGA, Imo State. | Serves Imo State. |
Headquarters Enugu Listing (from Finelib) | Contact listing for DSS HQ Enugu states the address as No. 10 Park Avenue, GRA Enugu. | Confirms the same Enugu address as above. |
Tip: Each state has a DSS command. When recruitment opens, applicants should submit their letters and documents at the command in their state of origin or residence, Avoid mailing documents to private addresses or middlemen.
DSS Leadership & Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current Director‑General of DSS?
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the Director‑General (DG) of the DSS on 26 August 2024, replacing Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Ajayi joined the service in 1990, rose through the ranks to Assistant DG, and previously served as state director in Enugu, Rivers, Bauchi, Kog,i and Bayelsa states. In his inaugural address, he emphasised unity among officers and a renewed focus on covert operations
DSS vs SSS – What’s the difference?
Legally, Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency is the State Security Service (SSS). The National Security Agencies Act 1986 established the SSS alongside the Defence Intelligence Agency and National Intelligence Agency. However, in recent years, the agency has styled itself as the Department of State Services (DSS) in official communications. Legal experts argue that the name “DSS” has no statutory backing – the Act has not been amended and still refers to the agency as the SSS. They contend that using “DSS” is a violation of the law. Nevertheless, the term DSS remains widely used by Nigerians and the media.
DSS FAQ
When will DSS recruitment 2025 start?
No recruitment has been announced as of August 2025. Watch for updates on the DSS official website and verified social‑media accounts. Avoid fraudsters who promise to secure DSS jobs for a fee.
What is the DSS rank structure?
The service has 16 ranks, from Recruit, Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal, Sergeant, Staff Sergeant, to Commissioned Officer ranks: Second Lieutenant, Lieutenant, Captain, Major, Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, Brigadier General, Major General, Lieutenant General, and General. Salaries increase from about ₦ 10,000 for recruits to over ₦1 million for Generals
How do I get DSS past questions?
Use reputable exam‑prep platforms like MyJobTests, which provide DSS past questions and practice exams. Do not download unverified PDFs from social media, as they may contain errors.
What is the DSS headquarters Abuja address?
DSS headquarters is located at 1 Maitama Avenue, P.M.B. 253, Maitama District, Abuja. Contact numbers: +234 915 339 1309, +234 915 339 1310, +234 908 837 3514
Conclusion
The Department of State Services/State Security Service is central to Nigeria’s internal security, counter‑terrorism, and intelligence efforts. Recruitment into the service is strict because officers handle sensitive national security information. As of August 2025, there is no ongoing DSS recruitment; aspiring candidates should prepare by meeting eligibility requirements, improving physical fitness, and practising aptitude tests. Always use official channels, submit handwritten applications directly to state commands, and never pay money to anyone claiming to be a DSS agent. Bookmark this guide and check back regularly for updates on DSS recruitment 2025.
You May Also Like
