Seize This Opportunity, Enlist in the Army, Sanwo-Olu Urges Lagos Youths
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday appealed to the young people of Lagos State to seize the opportunities presented by the Nigerian Army’s ongoing recruitment drive.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement at the palace of the Olofin of Isheri Olofin, the governor described military service as a pathway to professional growth and national pride.
Addressing traditional rulers and community leaders, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the breadth of careers now available within the Army, extending well beyond the conventional roles on the battlefield.
“Today’s Army is infused with technology, education and comprehensive career development.
“Our young people can pursue training in law, medicine, aeronautics and other specialised fields while serving the nation,” he counseled.
The appeal coincides with the registration window for the 89 Regular Recruits Intake (Trades and Non-Tradesmen/Women), which opened earlier this month and will close on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
The governor urged eligible Lagos indigenes to complete their applications before the deadline.
Emphasising the state’s commitment to youth empowerment under its THEMES+ Agenda, Sanwo-Olu pledged that the Lagos State Government would offer all necessary support to prospective candidates throughout the recruitment process.
“We will work hand-in-hand with community leaders to ensure our youths have the guidance and assistance they need from documentation to medical screening to join this noble profession,” he added.
In his remarks, the Olofin of Isheri Olofin, Oba Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello, commended the initiative as an extension of traditional values of service and sacrifice. He pledged to mobilise local youths and community associations to spread awareness of the recruitment exercise.
The Nigerian Army’s 89th intake represents one of its largest recruitment drives in recent years, reflecting a renewed focus on modernisation and capacity building. Interested applicants must be between 18 and 22 years of age (for non-tradesmen/women) or 18 and 26 years (for tradesmen/women), possess a minimum of five credits in WAEC or NECO (including Mathematics and English), and meet the stipulated medical and physical fitness standards. Detailed requirements and the online registration portal can be accessed via the Nigerian Army’s official website.
Security analysts have noted that expanding recruitment among Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population could help address high unemployment rates while strengthening the armed forces’ human resource base. With Lagos State’s population estimated at over 25 million, the governor’s call is poised to generate significant interest among city-dwelling graduates and skilled tradespersons alike.
As the May 17 deadline approaches, the governor’s endorsement and the cooperation of traditional institutions aim to ensure that qualified Lagos youths can capitalise on this opportunity to serve their country, advance their careers, and foster national cohesion.
