The Nigerian Defence Academy NDA has issued a strong warning to prospective candidates and the general public after a fake admission invitation letter surfaced online, falsely claiming that one Abubakar Washima had been selected for admission into the institution.

The academy clarified that the document did not originate from its offices and should be completely disregarded. The disclaimer followed the circulation of the letter, which appeared to mimic official communication and was aimed at deceiving unsuspecting applicants and their families.

In a statement released through its official X handle and signed by the Academy Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, the NDA stressed that it has established and transparent procedures for communicating with successful candidates.

According to the statement, any genuine invitation for screening or offer of admission into the academy is announced through national newspapers and published on the official NDA website. The institution does not rely on private letters or unofficial channels to notify candidates of their selection.

The academy urged members of the public to be vigilant and to treat any unsolicited admission letters, emails, or messages with suspicion, especially when they demand payment, personal data, or urgent responses. Such tactics, the NDA warned, are commonly used by fraudsters to exploit the aspirations of young Nigerians seeking military careers.

To curb the spread of misinformation and protect applicants, the NDA advised that any questionable documents or communications purportedly from the academy should be reported immediately through its verified direct messaging channels for confirmation.

The warning underscores growing concerns over admission-related scams targeting major educational and military institutions across the country. By reiterating its official communication channels, the NDA aims to shield prospective cadets from financial loss, identity theft, and dashed hopes arising from fraudulent schemes.

The academy called on parents, guardians, and candidates to rely solely on information released through its recognised platforms and to share the advisory widely, so that others do not fall victim to similar scams.