BREAKING: Army Recruitment in Oyo Suffers Setback as Many Candidates Didn’t Attend The Screening

According to a report by Vanguard News on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, officials of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) have expressed concern over the poor turnout recorded during the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment screening exercise in Oyo State.

The commission warned that the low participation rate could negatively affect efforts to ensure equitable representation of states in federal recruitment processes.

Reports indicate that of the 941 candidates shortlisted from Oyo State, only 472 attended the screening exercise. Officials described the turnout as disappointing, particularly given the state’s large population and strategic importance.

During an inspection of the screening exercise at the 2 Mechanised Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Military Cantonment in Ibadan, FCC Commissioner for Oyo State, , expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as a lack of seriousness among many applicants.

He noted that, beyond the low turnout, a significant number of candidates who appeared for the exercise failed to bring their original credentials as required. According to him, more than half of those screened had incomplete documentation, while others submitted certificates containing errors that required correction.

Aleshinloye urged affected applicants to promptly regularise their documents and seek support from parents or guardians where necessary to obtain the required originals. He warned that candidates who fail to provide the necessary documentation could face disqualification from the recruitment process.

The commissioner also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government authorities, and community stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns at the grassroots level. He stressed the need to educate young people about available recruitment opportunities and the requirements for successful participation.

Reaffirming the FCC’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and equal opportunity in federal employment, Aleshinloye emphasized that while government institutions create opportunities for all eligible citizens, applicants must also demonstrate commitment by actively participating and meeting all screening requirements.

He further encouraged youths across Oyo State to take advantage of future opportunities in the military, police, and paramilitary services by remaining diligent and fully engaged throughout the recruitment process.