The Anambra State Government has launched a sensitization program for youths across the state to encourage their participation in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise. The event, which took place at the Ministry of Youth Development, Awka, was declared open by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Agha Mba stated that the state government has initiated various programs aimed at creating job opportunities for the youths. He described the recruitment as “a big opportunity for the youth of the country” and urged traditional rulers, Presidents-General, and community leaders to take the message to their respective communities.
The Commissioner encouraged the participants to pay attention and ask questions, emphasizing that “the meeting is interactive in nature.” He also commended the Nigerian Army for its ongoing efforts to fight insecurity in Anambra State and Nigeria at large while welcoming the team from the Nigerian Army Headquarters.
Brigadier General A.C. Unaoga, the Team Leader from the Army Headquarters, expressed concern over the low participation of Anambra youths in the ongoing recruitment exercise. He noted that “many of them allow their quota to waste unnecessarily” and demanded an explanation from the youth. He explained that the age bracket for applicants is between 18 and 26 years and that the Army welcomes youths with different skills.
General Unaoga described the recruitment as a national project, stressing the importance of participation. He also guided the youths on how to apply online and provided them with the official link. He stated, “The Army is your brother’s keeper; there is no discrimination in the Nigerian Army.”
He further highlighted the benefits of joining the Nigerian Army, including job security, regular allowances, opportunities for higher education, good welfare packages, pension, and gratuity.
A participant from Awka South, Master Chidubem Divine, expressed his interest in joining the Nigerian Army, saying, “I have passion to join the Nigerian Army, but I have registered online twice, and my name was not shortlisted.” He added that there is “racial discrimination within the Nigerian Army,” which he found discouraging.
In his vote of thanks, the Vice Chairman of Igwe in Council, HRH Igwe Omasi, appreciated the team for their visit and for enlightening the youths on the ongoing recruitment exercise. He assured that the traditional rulers would “disseminate the information to their subjects.”
Present at the meeting were Colonel B.M. Yakubu, the ASATU Youth President, Mr. Kenneth Okoli, traditional rulers, and Presidents-General from various communities.