“Our people no longer join the army” – Soludo laments poor perception of security forces among Igbo youths

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed concern over the negative perception of the military and other security agencies among Igbo youths, urging them to consider careers in the security forces.

Soludo made the remarks during the memorial service for retired Lieutenant-General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State.

Speaking at the event, the governor lamented that many young people from the South-East were reluctant to enlist in the Nigerian Army, police and other security agencies.

“There is a phenomenon happening in Igbo land today. The perception of the armed forces amongst our youth is very, very bad. Our people are no longer joining the army, police or any security forces,” Soludo said.

The governor noted that the achievements of respected military officers such as Obiakor could inspire younger generations to consider military service and contribute to national development.

Obiakor, who hailed from Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, had a distinguished military career.

He served as a Force Commander with the United Nations Mission in Liberia and became the first African appointed as the UN Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations in 2008. He retired from the Nigerian Army in 2011.

Soludo also urged community leaders and elders to mentor young people and maintain strong relationships with their communities, stressing the importance of positive role models in encouraging patriotism and public service.

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“There is a phenomenon happening in Igbo land today. Our people are no longer joining the Army, Police or any other security forces.”

—Anambra State Governor, Soludo, said yesterday during the funeral ceremony of Lt. Gen. Obiakor, as he called on Igbo youths to join the military.

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) October 10, 2026