Negative Perception of Security Agencies Discourages Youths from Military Service, Soludo Says

 

By Atlantic Reports

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed concern that negative public perceptions of the military and other security agencies may be discouraging young Nigerians from pursuing careers in the armed forces and related services.

Soludo raised the concern on Friday, October 9, 2026, during a memorial service held in honour of the late Lieutenant-General Chikadibia Obiakor (rtd.) at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

The governor said the lives and accomplishments of respected military officers could help reshape public attitudes towards national service and encourage young people to consider careers dedicated to protecting the country.

He described Obiakor as an accomplished military officer whose contributions to international peacekeeping and national service brought recognition to Anambra State and Nigeria.

Public Perception and the Future of Military Recruitment

Soludo acknowledged that public attitudes towards security institutions could influence the willingness of young people to join the services.

He suggested that negative impressions of the military and other security agencies sometimes overshadow the contributions of officers who have served with distinction.

According to the governor, celebrating individuals whose careers reflect discipline, professionalism and commitment to humanity could help younger generations develop a more balanced understanding of military service.

His remarks raise broader questions about public confidence in security institutions and the importance of maintaining constructive relationships between security personnel and civilian communities.

While the governor identified negative perceptions as a potential deterrent to recruitment, no figures were presented at the event to establish the extent to which such perceptions have affected enlistment.

Nevertheless, public trust, professional conduct and institutional accountability remain important considerations in the relationship between security agencies and the communities they serve.

Soludo Celebrates Obiakor's Military Legacy

Paying tribute to the late general, Soludo described him as one of Anambra's distinguished sons whose career extended beyond Nigeria's borders.

“We have come to celebrate the life of one of our best,” the governor said.

He described Obiakor as “Anambra’s export to Nigeria and the world”, acknowledging his international peacekeeping assignments and contributions to maintaining peace and security.

The governor said the late officer's career demonstrated how individuals from local communities could make meaningful contributions to national and international affairs.

However, Soludo emphasised that professional achievements should not be measured solely by titles, ranks or international recognition.

He argued that an individual's relationship with their immediate community remained an important measure of personal accomplishment.

“The impact on the community is the most important impact, that his people were able to testify that he was good,” he said.

His remarks placed particular emphasis on the importance of maintaining strong community connections, even among individuals whose professional responsibilities take them far from home.

Community Leaders Urged to Mentor Young People

Beyond his tribute to Obiakor, Soludo called on elders, community leaders and accomplished professionals to remain actively involved in the lives of younger generations.

He encouraged them to maintain close relationships with their communities and demonstrate leadership through personal example.

“We must multitask and become the villager as a way of inspiring and motivating the younger ones,” he said.

The governor's message underscored the importance of mentorship and community engagement in shaping young people's aspirations.

For young Nigerians considering careers in public service, the military or other professions, access to experienced mentors can provide guidance about discipline, responsibility and professional development.

Soludo maintained that individuals who achieve distinction should continue to support the communities that contributed to their upbringing.

Defence Chief Honours Late General

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, also paid tribute to Obiakor, describing him as a decorated veteran whose service brought honour to the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Oluyede was represented at the memorial by Major-General Tariweriye Gagariga, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre.

The defence chief conveyed condolences to the Obiakor family and joined the people of Anambra State in mourning the retired senior officer.

He acknowledged the late general's military accomplishments and contributions to international peacekeeping.

The tribute reflected the significance attached to Obiakor's career within the armed forces and the recognition accorded to officers who have represented Nigeria in international security assignments.

Son Recalls Father's Discipline and Humanity

Speaking on behalf of the family, the deceased's son, Nonso Obiakor, reflected on his father's life and values.

He highlighted the late general's discipline, commitment to international peacekeeping and dedication to humanity.

His tribute presented Obiakor not only as a senior military officer but also as a father whose principles and personal conduct left an impression on those closest to him.

The memorial brought together family members, senior military officers, government officials and other mourners who gathered to honour the retired general's contributions.

The occasion also provided an opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities of military leadership and the importance of service beyond professional achievement.

Rebuilding Trust Through Professionalism and Service

Soludo's remarks at the memorial highlighted an issue extending beyond the commemoration of one military officer: the relationship between public confidence in security institutions and the willingness of young people to serve.

Encouraging military careers requires more than celebrating distinguished veterans. It also involves ensuring that institutions demonstrate professionalism, respect for human rights and accountability in their dealings with citizens.

Positive examples of military service can help inspire young people, but lasting public confidence depends on the conduct of security personnel and the effectiveness of institutions responsible for maintaining discipline.

The governor's tribute to Obiakor offered a reminder that national service can be measured through professional accomplishments, contributions to peace and the lasting influence individuals have on their communities.

As family members and colleagues remembered the late general, the central message of the gathering was that a meaningful legacy extends beyond military rank to the values, relationships and opportunities left for future generations.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.