The ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment screening exercise in Oyo State has recorded a poor turnout, raising concerns among officials of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) over equitable state representation in federal recruitment.
According to FCC officials, only 472 of the 941 candidates shortlisted from Oyo State attended the screening exercise. The commission described the turnout as disappointing, considering the state’s population and significance.
During an inspection at the 2 Mechanised Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Military Cantonment in Ibadan, FCC Commissioner for Oyo State, Aleshinloye, expressed concern over what he described as a lack of seriousness among many applicants.
He noted that many candidates who attended failed to present original credentials as required. More than half of those screened reportedly had incomplete documentation, while others submitted certificates containing errors that required correction.
Aleshinloye urged affected candidates to regularise their documents promptly, warning that failure to provide the necessary credentials could lead to disqualification.
He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government authorities, and community stakeholders to increase awareness efforts on recruitment opportunities and participation requirements. Reaffirming the FCC’s commitment to fairness and equal opportunity, he encouraged Oyo youths to take advantage of future recruitment opportunities in the military, police, and paramilitary services by remaining diligent throughout the process.
