Peter Obi has urged young people in the South East to consider careers in Nigeria’s armed forces and other security services, saying national service should be recognised and supported with appropriate welfare arrangements.
He spoke in Awka during activities surrounding the burial of Lieutenant General Isaac Chikadibia Obiakor, whom he praised for distinguished service, including an international peacekeeping role. Obi said senior officers who devoted their careers to the country deserved greater public recognition and respect for their families.
Obi also called for improved remuneration and support for military personnel, arguing that neglect of veterans could discourage young Nigerians from enlisting.
Separately, Anambra South Senator Emma Nwachukwu expressed concern that some Igbo youths were reluctant to apply for military and police recruitment because of fears about deployment to areas affected by insurgency. He warned that sustained low participation could weaken the region’s representation in the security services and appealed for greater public awareness of recruitment opportunities.
