Army Headquarters Takes Recruitment Sensitization To Imo, Encourages South-East Youth Participation

Army Headquarters Takes Recruitment Sensitization To Imo, Encourages South-East Youth Participation

A delegation from Army Headquarters on 13 April 2026 visited Owerri as part of the ongoing South-East sensitization campaign for the 91 Regular Recruit Intake of the Nigerian Army, aimed at encouraging greater participation of youths from the region. The sensitization programme was held at the palace of the Eze Imo, where critical stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the recruitment exercise and the need for increased enlistment from the South-East.

In his address, the team leader of the delegation, Brigadier General UC Nnabuihe, conveyed the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, and informed participants that the recruitment portal opened on 30 March 2026 and will close on 17 May 2026. He noted that the Nigerian Army plans to recruit about 14,000 personnel this year and urged eligible youths not to miss the opportunity.

Brigadier General Nnabuihe emphasized the numerous benefits of joining the Nigerian Army, including career development, educational opportunities, and national service. He also highlighted the need to bridge the enlistment gap, noting that the South-East currently lags behind other regions in recruitment figures.

In his response, His Royal Majesty, Dr Emmanuel C. Okere, Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the initiative. He assured the delegation of increased awareness and participation among youths across the state and appealed for fairness and consideration during the screening process.

The event featured an interactive session during which stakeholders raised concerns and sought clarifications on the recruitment process. Members of the delegation addressed these issues, assuring participants of transparency and merit-based selection.

The meeting at the palace was attended by traditional rulers, representatives of town unions, youth leaders, and heads of vigilante groups in Imo State. The composition of the sensitization team included Brigadier General UC Nnabuihe, Lieutenant Colonel AO Osawe, and Major AA Agbo. Highlights of the programme included a detailed presentation on the recruitment process by Lieutenant Colonel OU Osawe, presentation of the recruitment flyer to the Eze Imo, and a group photograph to commemorate the visit.

Earlier, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General A Ahmed, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant Colonel A Jir, at the Headquarters, 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Imo State.

The sensitization campaign underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and nationwide representation in its recruitment process.