The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has issued an urgent and critical public warning regarding a sophisticated fraud scheme targeting aspiring cadets and their families. Fraudsters are circulating counterfeit admission letters, falsely claiming to offer placement into the prestigious NDA 77 Regular Course.
In an official statement released in Kaduna by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, the institution moved to quash the scam and protect the public from financial exploitation and dashed hopes.
The Nature of the Fraud
Major Kovangiya clarified that the fraudulent letters are deceptively crafted, purportedly signed by the Academy’s Registrar. “The NDA wishes to state unequivocally that the letters circulating are not only fake but obviously the antics of fraudsters, whose sole intention is to defraud unsuspecting members of the public,” he stated.
This scam capitalizes on the intense competition and high national esteem associated with gaining admission into the NDA. Perpetrators likely demand “processing fees,” “acceptance deposits,” or other illegitimate payments from victims, exploiting their joy and trust.
Official Admission Process: How to Verify Authenticity
The Academy provided clear, actionable steps for verification to empower the public:
- Published Lists: The only authentic list of successful candidates and reserves for the 77 Regular Course was published in the Daily Trust and Daily Sun newspapers on August 19, 2025.
- Official Website: The definitive admission list is hosted on the NDA’s official website: www.nda.edu.ng. Any other site or portal should be treated with extreme suspicion.
- Admission Status: Major Kovangiya emphasized that the admission process for the 77 RC is concluded, and successful candidates have already resumed training. Any offer letter received after this point is inherently fraudulent.
Protecting Yourself: A Practical Guide for Applicants and Parents
Beyond the NDA’s warning, here are essential safeguards:
- Direct Verification is Key: The Academy explicitly directs the public to verify any suspicious communication directly with the Office of the Registrar via the official email: academyregistrar@nda.edu.ng. Do not use contact details provided in the suspicious letter itself.
- Beware of Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, demanding immediate payment to “secure” a slot. Legitimate institutions follow strict, transparent timelines.
- Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: Be wary of any communication that bypasses the official, highly competitive selection process involving rigorous screening, examinations, and interviews.
The NDA’s alert underscores a persistent challenge in the digital age, where the reputation of trusted institutions is weaponized for fraud. By publicly detailing the official channels and timelines, the Academy provides a vital shield for the public. Prospective candidates are strongly advised to disregard any unsolicited admission offers and to rely solely on the published, verifiable sources outlined by the NDA itself.
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
