Only 472 of 941 candidates attend Army screening in Oyo
The ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment screening exercise in Oyo State has recorded a low turnout of shortlisted candidates, raising concern from the Federal Character Commission (FCC) over its possible impact on fair representation in federal recruitment processes. The FCC warned that the poor participation could undermine efforts to ensure equitable inclusion across states, as only 472 out of 941 shortlisted candidates showed up for the screening exercise in the state. Speaking during a monitoring visit at the 2 Mechanised Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Military Cantonment in Ibadan, the FCC Commissioner representing Oyo State, Ayodeji Abass Aleshinloye, described the turnout as disappointing and urged applicants to take the process more seriously. He noted that the number of candidates who reported was already low for a state with Oyo’s population size, stressing that many applicants also arrived with incomplete or incorrect documentation. According to him, more than half of those who turned up failed to present original credentials, while several others had discrepancies that required immediate correction. He warned that such issues could lead to disqualification. Aleshinloye advised candidates with documentation problems to quickly regularise their papers and engage their parents or guardians where necessary to obtain required originals. He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government authorities and other community stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns on recruitment exercises, particularly at the grassroots level, to prevent eligible youths from missing opportunities.
The FCC commissioner reiterated the commission’s commitment to fairness, equity and inclusiveness in federal recruitment processes, adding that government agencies continue to provide equal opportunities across all states. “When opportunities are provided in the spirit of fairness and equity, applicants must also do the right thing by presenting themselves and meeting all necessary requirements,” he said. He further encouraged young people in the state to remain proactive and take advantage of future recruitment opportunities in the military, paramilitary agencies and the police by ensuring full compliance at every stage of the process.
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