Governor Monday Okpebholo has launched a statewide sensitisation campaign to boost participation in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise, following low application numbers from Edo State.
The governor took the step after the state recorded only 291 applicants out of an expected 300 to 400 slots under the 91 Regular Recruitment Intake, which began on March 30 and is scheduled to enLow army recruitment: Okpebholo leads drive to boost Edo applicantsd on May 17.
Speaking during a meeting with an Army delegation at Government House in Benin City, Okpebholo said his administration had already commenced awareness efforts and would intensify outreach across all local government areas.
“I want you to take advantage of our Edo Broadcasting Service. I will speak with the Managing Director to grant you access for interviews if necessary,” the governor said.
He added that local government chairmen would be mobilised to ensure grassroots awareness of the exercise.
“It is important that we meet our quota. We are going to take this seriously to ensure our people are aware of what is happening,” he said.
Okpebholo also appealed to the Army authorities to extend the application deadline, noting that many youths in rural communities lack internet access and may not be aware of the opportunity.
“I will also beg you to extend the time. There are many people in communities without internet access who may not be aware of this opportunity,” he added.
Leader of the Army delegation, Brigadier General M. U. Ikobah, commended the governor’s intervention, noting that the Army aims to recruit about 14,000 personnel nationwide, with each state expected to contribute between 300 and 400 recruits.
The sensitisation campaign later moved to the New Festival Hall of Government House, where over 300 youths were addressed and encouraged to spread information about the recruitment in their communities.
The ongoing recruitment drive comes amid rising security challenges across parts of Nigeria, increasing the need for manpower in military operations nationwide.
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