The ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment screening in Oyo State has recorded a low turnout of shortlisted candidates, raising concerns from the Federal Government through the Federal Character Commission (FCC).
Out of 941 shortlisted applicants expected for the exercise, only 472 reported at the screening venue held at the 2 Mechanised Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Military Cantonment in Ibadan.
The FCC, which monitored the exercise, said the development could affect efforts to ensure fair representation in federal recruitment processes.
The FCC Commissioner representing Oyo State, Prince Ayodeji Abass Aleshinloye, said the turnout fell short of expectations and reflected poor engagement from applicants.
“The number we have here is not encouraging. Only 472 out of 941 shortlisted candidates showed up. For a state like Oyo, this is below expectation,” he said.
He also noted that several candidates arrived without complete documentation, while others presented inconsistent or unverified credentials.
“A good number of those who came did not bring their original certificates. Some documents also had discrepancies that require correction,” he said.
Aleshinloye warned that failure to meet documentation requirements could lead to disqualification.
“Applicants who cannot provide the required original documents or resolve discrepancies may not be considered further in the process,” he stated.
He urged shortlisted candidates to act quickly in addressing documentation issues and ensure proper verification before future recruitment stages.
The FCC commissioner also called for stronger sensitisation at community level to improve awareness of recruitment exercises.
“Traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government authorities and other stakeholders need to do more in informing young people about these opportunities,” he said.
He stressed that while government agencies continue to provide equal access across states, applicants must also meet their responsibilities.
“When opportunities are provided in the spirit of fairness, applicants are expected to comply fully with the requirements. Participation is part of the process,” he added.
Aleshinloye further encouraged youths in Oyo State to take future recruitment exercises in the military, police, and paramilitary agencies more seriously by ensuring timely participation and full compliance with instructions.
