Oyo Governor Encourages Youth to Join Nigerian Army Amid Recruitment Drive

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on qualified residents to take advantage of new opportunities in the Nigerian Army. He made this appeal during a public event in Ibadan aimed at raising awareness about the ongoing recruitment for the military.

Represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Makinde highlighted the establishment of new military units in Oyo, including a brigade and battalion in Oyo town, an infantry battalion in Kishi, and an artillery regiment in Iseyin. He believes these formations will enhance local security and support national defense efforts.

Makinde pointed out that despite hiring over 23,000 workers in civil and public service since 2019, many qualified youths remain unemployed. He emphasized that joining the army offers meaningful job opportunities and a clear career path.

The recruitment campaign, known as the 92 Regular Recruits Intake, started on September 9 and will continue until October 21, 2026. It is open to both male and female indigenes of Oyo State, and applications are free. Brigadier General Olusegun Okungbure, the Team Lead for the recruitment, encouraged young people to view joining the army as a noble service to the nation.

Okungbure noted that the recruitment drive aims to improve the number of applicants from Oyo State, which previously fell short of its quota. He urged youths from all local government areas to participate and highlighted the benefits of military service, such as national integration and access to world-class medical care.

In closing, Major General Lukman Omoniyi, an adviser on security to the governor, thanked Makinde for his support of security agencies and urged community leaders to help spread the word about the recruitment drive.