The Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday intensified efforts to boost the participation of Edo youths in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise, as he received a delegation from the Nigerian Army at the Government House in Benin City.
The visit formed part of a nationwide sensitisation campaign aimed at increasing awareness and encouraging eligible youths to enlist. Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Edo State meets its recruitment quota.
Speaking during the meeting, the governor disclosed that the state government had already commenced awareness campaigns and would scale up efforts across all local government areas.
“Yesterday, I received your letter quite late, and upon going through it, I noted your request to create awareness, which we are already doing. I encourage you to take advantage of the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS). I will engage the Managing Director to provide access for interviews if necessary,” he said.
He further stated that the sensitisation campaign would be extended to grassroots communities through local government structures.
“I will be meeting with local government chairmen and directing them to disseminate this information across all areas. It is important that we meet our quota. We are taking this seriously to ensure our people are adequately informed,” the governor added.
Governor Okpebholo also appealed to the Nigerian Army to consider extending the application deadline to accommodate more interested candidates, particularly those in rural areas with limited internet access.
“I also appeal for an extension of the deadline. Many people in rural communities may not be aware of this opportunity due to lack of internet access,” he said.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Brigadier General M. U. Ikobah, commended the governor for his continued commitment to security and development in Edo State. He explained that the visit was to encourage greater participation of Edo youths in the 91 Regular Recruitment Intake.
Ikobah revealed that although the recruitment exercise, which began on March 30 and is scheduled to end on May 17, has recorded about 38,000 applications nationwide, Edo State has contributed only 291 applicants so far.
He noted that the Nigerian Army plans to recruit about 14,000 personnel nationwide, with each state expected to produce between 300 and 400 recruits, stressing that Edo’s current figures fall short of expectations.
Other officials present at the meeting included the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, Brigadier General A. O. Balogun; Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq; Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Musa; Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua; and Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianosen, among others.
As part of the engagement, the sensitisation campaign was later extended to the New Festival Hall of the Government House, where over 300 youths were addressed and encouraged to spread the message across their respective local government areas.