Urbanscopnews reporting
The Governor of Edo State, , has intensified efforts to increase youth participation in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise, spearheading a statewide sensitisation campaign to ensure the state meets its enlistment quota.
The governor made this known on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the at the Government House in Benin City, as part of a nationwide awareness initiative aimed at boosting applications for the 91 Regular Recruitment Intake.
During the engagement, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to amplifying awareness across Edo State, noting that strategic measures were already underway to mobilise eligible youths.
He disclosed that the state government would leverage the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) to expand outreach, directing relevant authorities to facilitate media access for the Army to engage prospective applicants through interviews and public enlightenment programmes.
Beyond media engagement, the governor emphasized grassroots mobilisation, stating that local government structures would play a critical role in disseminating information to rural communities.
He further assured that he would convene a meeting with local government chairmen to drive the campaign at the community level, stressing the importance of ensuring that Edo State fulfills its recruitment allocation.
In a related appeal, Governor Okpebholo called on the Nigerian Army to consider extending the application deadline to accommodate more interested candidates, particularly those in remote areas with limited internet access.
“I will also appeal for an extension of the timeline. Many qualified youths in rural communities may not yet be aware of this opportunity due to connectivity challenges,” the governor stated.
Earlier, the leader of the Army delegation, , commended the governor for his proactive stance on security and youth development. He noted that the sensitisation visit was necessary to address the low turnout of applicants from Edo State.
According to Brigadier General Ikobah, although approximately 38,000 applications have been recorded nationwide since the exercise commenced on March 30, Edo State has contributed only 291 applicants—far below expectations.
He revealed that the Army plans to recruit about 14,000 personnel nationwide, translating to an average of 300 to 400 recruits per state, underscoring the urgency for increased participation from Edo.
Other top officials present at the meeting included , Commander of the 4 Brigade, Benin City; ; Chief of Staff ; Commissioner for Information and Strategy ; and Commissioner for Public Security and Safety , among others.
As part of the sensitisation drive, the campaign extended to the New Festival Hall of the Government House, where over 300 youths were directly engaged and encouraged to disseminate information within their respective local government areas.
The initiative underscores the Edo State Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, national service, and strengthening security through increased local participation in the Nigerian Army.
The development was formally communicated in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, , on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
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