The Rivers State Sole Administration has expressed concern over the low participation of its youths in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise and is taking steps to address the issue. Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Worika, described the current level of enlistment as a "disservice to the nation" and emphasized the need for increased awareness and engagement.
Current Recruitment Statistics
Brigadier General Wiito Nzidee, Director of the Supply and Transport Unit at the Nigerian Army Headquarters in Abuja, highlighted the disparity in recruitment figures during a sensitization visit to Port Harcourt. He noted that while other states have recorded between 900 to 2,000 applicants since the portal opened, Rivers State has seen only 221 applications. This underrepresentation could result in the state's quota being filled by candidates from other regions.
Government's Commitment to Boost Participation
In response, Professor Worika assured that the state government would collaborate with local government authorities and traditional leaders to enhance sensitization efforts. He stated, "We want to do more and we want to see if there are any gaps in the areas of sensitization that have resulted in this level of abysmal performance from the state in the recruitment exercise."
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Recruitment Details and Eligibility
The Nigerian Army's 89 Regular Recruits Intake exercise commenced on March 31 and will conclude on May 17, 2025. The recruitment is open to all Nigerians aged 18 to 22 years for non-trades positions and up to 26 years for trades positions requiring specific skills. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply through the official recruitment portal: recruitment.army.mil.ng.
Call to Action for Rivers Youths
The state government is urging eligible youths to seize this opportunity for gainful employment and to serve the nation. Brigadier General Nzidee emphasized, "Here is a free opportunity for people to be gainfully employed, but either they are not aware or we are not helping them understand."
By increasing awareness and participation, Rivers State aims to ensure its representation in the Nigerian Army reflects its population and contributes effectively to national security efforts.
