The Nigerian Army has extended an olive branch to Igbo youths, encouraging them to enlist in the military and dispelling long-held concerns about marginalization. This appeal was made by Brigadier General Chima Ekeator, team leader of the Nigerian Army Recruitment Sensitisation Exercise, during a stakeholders’ sensitization exercise held at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.
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The event, which aimed to promote awareness about the Army’s recruitment process, drew attendance from local government chairmen, traditional rulers, student union representatives, and other stakeholders.
Brigadier General Ekeator revealed that the Army targets recruiting approximately 250 applicants from each of Enugu’s 17 local government areas. He outlined the eligibility criteria, stating that applicants with O’level certificates must be between 18 and 22 years old, while those with Trade Test certificates must be between 18 and 26 years old.
The Army officer expressed concern about the dwindling number of Igbo youths participating in the recruitment exercise, emphasizing that this trend may limit future military opportunities for the zone. He attributed disqualification during the recruitment process to military standards rather than ethnic bias.
In response to the Army’s appeal, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, chairman of the Association of Local Government Councils of Nigeria (ALGON) in Enugu State, acknowledged the historical ill-treatment of Igbos in the military. However, he commended the Army’s willingness to make amends and assured that the local government chairmen would encourage Igbo youths to join the military.
Hon. Lloyd Ekweremadu, Enugu State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, pledged the government’s support for the recruitment exercise, ensuring that the state’s youths would be enrolled in the military.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included Hon. Ferdinand Ugwueze, chairman of Igboeze South Local Government Area; Hon. Hyginus Agu, chairman of Udi Local Government Area; and Mr. Arinze Ogbodo, chairman of the Association of President-Generals, Enugu State chapter.
The Nigerian Army’s outreach to Igbo youths marks a significant effort to promote inclusivity and address long-standing concerns about marginalization. As the recruitment exercise progresses, it remains to be seen whether the Army’s appeal will resonate with Igbo youths and lead to increased participation.