Army decries low enrolment of A’Ibom LG youths in military service

A team from the Nigerian Army Headquarters, led by Brig.-Gen. Moses Ikobah, has raised concerns over the low enrollment of youths from Eket into military service.

Ikobah stated this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Chairman of Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, Mr Tommey Akaninyene, in his office.

He described the development as worrisome, noting that a good leader, particularly in a profession like the Nigerian Army, should leave behind others from their community in service.

“When soldiers are gathered, I hardly hear people from Eket. I said, what is going on? Eket people don’t join the Nigerian Army again?” he queried.

Ikobah encouraged youths from Eket to enlist in the Nigerian Army to ensure equal representation, adding that Akwa Ibom should always be able to fill its quota.

“This year alone, we are recruiting 400 personnel from Akwa Ibom; you just find two people from Eket,” Ikobah said.

He emphasised that joining the Nigerian Army is not just about war, adding that “having a career in the Nigerian Army is unique”.

Responding, Akaninyene urged eligible youths in the local government to take advantage of the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment.

The chairman commended the army for the sensitisation and pledged full support to encourage more Eket youths to apply.

He said, “I want to sincerely thank our governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for giving us this opportunity.

“I can assure you that the number of Eket people applying this time around will be significant.

“I stand here today as the local government chairman to say that whatever support you may need for more Eket youths to be in the Nigerian Army, we are ready to give our 100 per cent support.” (NAN)