Why we are no longer interested in joining military – Enugu indigenes to COAS

By Adeleye Kunle

It was a moment of frank discussions as the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya interfaced with indigenes of Enugu State over their lack of interest in enlisting into the Army.

The Army Chief, represented Major Gen. Ola Oyelade from the Personnel Dept. Nigerian Army, went round the three Senatorial zones of the State with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, where they held a dialogue with all the stakeholders, including the traditional rulers.

On the entourage was also the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major Gen. Umar Musa, represented by the Garrison Commander.

Without mincing words, the indigenes said they were no longer interested as the recruitment process, postings and promotions in the Armed Forces were against Ndigbo.

Governor Ugwuanyi told people of the State during the visit that the State was ready to offer the necessary support to the indigenes who are interested in enlisting into the Army.

“We can’t stay out of the system; we must be part of the security architecture; the essence of this meeting is to encourage our people because last year, we could not meet our quota. Let us talk to our people and encourage them to be part of the system,” he advised