Nigerian Army canvasses increased South-East enlistment during Imo sensitisation visit
The Nigerian Army has intensified its recruitment sensitisation in the South-East with a visit to Owerri, Imo State, as part of efforts to encourage greater participation of youths in the 91 Regular Recruit Intake.
A delegation from Army Headquarters visited the state on Monday as part of the ongoing campaign, aimed at encouraging enlistment from the region. The sensitisation programme was held at the palace of the Eze Imo, where stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the recruitment exercise and the need for increased participation.
The leader of the delegation, Brig. Gen. U.C. Nnabuihe, conveyed the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu (NAM), and disclosed that the recruitment portal opened on 30 March 2026 and will close on 17 May 2026. He said about 14,000 personnel are expected to be recruited this year, urging eligible youths to take advantage of the opportunity.
He highlighted the benefits of joining the Nigerian Army, including career development, education and national service, and stressed the need to address the enlistment gap, noting that the South-East currently lags behind other regions.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Dr Emmanuel C. Okere, commended the Army for the initiative and pledged to intensify awareness and mobilisation of youths across the state. He also called for fairness and transparency in the screening process.
An interactive session was held, during which stakeholders raised concerns and sought clarifications on the recruitment exercise. Members of the delegation assured participants of a transparent and merit-based selection process.
The event was attended by traditional rulers, town union leaders, youth representatives and vigilante group leaders. The delegation also included Lt. Col. A.O. Osawe and Maj. A.A. Agbo, while a detailed presentation on the recruitment process was delivered during the programme.
Earlier, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Brig. Gen. A. Ahmed, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Lt. Col. A. Jir, at the brigade headquarters in Obinze.
