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Nigerian Army recruitment screening records low turnout
The ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment screening exercise in Oyo State has recorded a low turnout of shortlisted candidates.
The development has raised concerns from the Federal Character Commission (FCC) over its potential impact on equitable representation in federal recruitment.
Speaking during a monitoring visit to the screening exercise at the 2 Mechanised Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Military Cantonment, Ibadan, the FCC Commissioner representing Oyo State, Prince Ayodeji Abass Aleshinloye, disclosed that only 472 out of the 941 shortlisted candidates reported for screening.
Aleshinloye described the turnout as disappointing, noting that the number of shortlisted candidates was already considered inadequate for a state with Oyo’s population size.
He attributed the development to what he termed a lackadaisical attitude among some applicants and warned that poor participation could undermine efforts to ensure fair representation in federal recruitment processes.
The commissioner also expressed concern over the documentation challenges encountered during the exercise. According to him, many candidates arrived at the screening centre without complete documentation, while more than half of those who reported failed to present their original credentials.
He revealed that several applicants also had discrepancies in their documents that required correction, urging affected candidates to immediately regularise their records and obtain the necessary original documents through their parents and guardians where applicable.
Aleshinloye warned that candidates who failed to provide the required documentation could be disqualified from the recruitment exercise.
He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government chairmen and other stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns on recruitment opportunities, particularly at the grassroots level, to ensure that eligible youths do not miss future opportunities.
Reaffirming the FCC’s commitment to fairness, equity and inclusiveness in federal recruitment, Aleshinloye stressed that while government agencies provide equal opportunities for all states and groups, applicants must also fulfil their obligations by complying with recruitment requirements.
“When opportunities are provided in the spirit of fairness and equity, applicants must also do the right thing by presenting themselves and meeting all necessary requirements,” he said.
He further encouraged young people across Oyo State to take advantage of future recruitment opportunities in the military, paramilitary agencies and the police by participating diligently at every stage of the process.