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Eko Hot Blog Editorial: Recruitment Exercise: Lagos Youths Must Seize the Opportunity to Serve in Military

Published

2 months ago

Oct 10, 2024.

In an era where national security is increasingly vital, the lack of participation from Lagos indigenes in military recruitment exercises is both concerning and disappointing.

With the Nigerian military actively seeking new recruits and the Federal Government allocating 150 slots for each state, the consistent shortfall in filling these positions in Lagos raises questions about the priorities and aspirations of our youth.

The recent appeal by Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government, serves as a crucial wake-up call.

Her lament over the low involvement of Lagos youths in military service highlights a troubling trend in a state known for its vibrancy and resourcefulness.

It is time for our young people to re-evaluate their perceptions of military service and recognize the invaluable opportunities it presents.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Lagos State has long been the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria and the epicenter of innovation and culture.

Yet, it has not produced a single service chief, a glaring omission that speaks volumes about the state’s representation within the military.

If Lagos, with its rich history and dynamic population, continues to shy away from military service, we risk losing a vital opportunity to influence our nation’s defense and security strategies.

The military is often seen through a lens of skepticism, associated with conflict and hardship. However, serving in the armed forces can provide a pathway to personal and professional growth.

Enlistment offers not only job security but also specialized training and skills development.

Beyond the traditional combat roles, the military encompasses diverse career opportunities in fields such as engineering, healthcare, logistics, and technology.

Moreover, the military fosters discipline, teamwork, and leadership—qualities that are essential in any career.

For the youth of Lagos, these are not just skills for the battlefield but invaluable assets in the civilian job market.

We must also recognize the societal impact of military service. Young men and women who serve can return to their communities with a wealth of experience and a network of connections.

They become role models, showing others that a career in the military is not only honorable but also enriching and fulfilling.

The call to service should resonate with the youth of Lagos, prompting them to consider the military as a viable and noble career path.

Instead of viewing military service as a last resort, it should be embraced as an opportunity to contribute to the safety and stability of our nation.

We urge the youth of Lagos to heed the call for military service. This is not merely about filling recruitment slots; it is about representing our state, contributing to national security, and fostering a sense of purpose and pride.

It is time for Lagos indigenes to step up, answer the call to serve, and ensure that our state plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Nigeria.

By doing so, they will not only uplift themselves but also inspire future generations to take pride in serving their country.

This is where the leaders of IBILE—representing the divisions that make up Lagos: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe—must step in.

Traditional rulers, community leaders, and influencers within these divisions should actively encourage their wards to consider a career in the military.

How to Apply: Army Recruitment – Requirements, Method of Application, and Special Notice

“Interested candidates are advised to log on to https://recruitment.army.mil.ng to complete online registration from 30 September to 8 November 2024,” the notice stated.

Basic Requirements

Applicants must be single, Nigerian citizens by birth, and possess a National Identity Card/NIN slip/BVN.
Applicants must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit in accordance with Nigerian Army standards.
Applicants must be free of any criminal conviction by a court of law.
All applicants must possess at least a minimum of four passes, including English Language, in not more than two sittings in WASSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB.
In addition to the above qualification, those applying as tradesmen/women must also possess a TRADES TEST/CITY AND GUILD CERTIFICATE. Details are available on the website.
Applicants must possess a valid birth certificate endorsed by the National Population Commission, hospital, local government council, or age declaration.
An applicant must not be less than 18 years or older than 22 years for non-tradesmen and women, while tradesmen and women must not be more than 26 years as of 31st December 2024.

Applicants must not be less than 1.68 meters for male candidates and 1.65 meters for female candidates.
Applicants must possess a valid certificate of state of origin.

Special Notes on Documents Submitted Note that all documents will be verified by the appropriate issuing authorities, and anyone with fake documents will be handed over to the police for prosecution.

Army Recruitment Method of Application

Apply online via the recruitment portal https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.
Log on to the above-mentioned link using the username and password.
Complete the application form, submit it online, and print a copy. Then, print and complete the Guarantor Form as appropriate.
Ensure you bring duly signed copies of the application and guarantor forms to the designated state recruitment centres.

Screening Requirements

Candidates should note that there will be no pre-selection Computer-Based Test (CBT).
There is no special centre for recruitment.
All screening of potential recruits will be conducted at the candidates’ respective states of origin.
Candidates are not to bring electronic or recording devices to the venue of the State Recruitment Exercise.
Candidates must not have any bodily inscriptions or tattoos.
Candidates must tender all original copies of educational certificates (Primary and Secondary).
Candidates must not belong to any cult/society/fraternity.
Any candidate who falsifies or forges his/her results and is discovered, even during training at Depot Nigerian Army, will be withdrawn from training.
Candidates are advised in their own interest not to give any form of gratification or inducement to any person or group of persons to assist them in the recruitment exercise.
Candidates are advised to come with their NIN slip.
Candidates are advised to carefully study the instructions on the website or call the following support lines if in doubt: 07036499094 and 09041116433.
Names of shortlisted candidates who will participate in the state recruitment exercise will be published on the Nigerian Army website for the awareness of all candidates.
Shortlisted candidates are expected to report to their respective states of origin for the screening exercise from 5 – 19 December 2024.