Army decries low enrolment of Eket youths in military service

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

Ikobah said this on Tuesday when he paid a courtesy call on Mr Tommey Akaninyene, Chairman, Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, in his office.

He said that it was a bit of a concern, adding that a good leader, particularly in a profession like the Nigerian Army, should leave the service with brothers and sisters still serving.

“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 join 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, “but having a career in the Nigerian Army is unique”.

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

‎The chairman commended the army for the sensitisation while pledging 100 per cent support to encourage more Eket youths to apply for the recruitment.

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)