By Peter Omopo
Actor Joseph Momodu has officially enlisted in the United States Army after successfully completing 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood.
Momodu announced the milestone in a post shared on his Instagram page on Friday, revealing that his prolonged absence from social media was due to the intensive military training programme.
According to the actor, the training was physically and mentally demanding, testing his endurance, discipline and resilience throughout the 10-week period.
“From inception, I have always believed in achievements earned through merit, which is why I constantly push myself beyond limits,” he wrote.
Reflecting on the experience, Momodu described the journey as one of sacrifice and perseverance.
“Ten weeks of being incommunicado. Ten weeks of learning to find comfort in discomfort,” he said.
The actor disclosed that he now serves as Specialist (SPC) J.A. Momodu with the 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 3-10, 3rd Battalion, 10th Infantry Regiment at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
He said the path to becoming a soldier was marked by physical exhaustion, emotional strain, sleepless nights and moments of self-doubt, but noted that the challenges ultimately strengthened his resolve.
“There were moments of doubt and times I questioned myself, but I never lost sight of the finish line. We trained tirelessly, were broken down and rebuilt,” he stated, adding that he “went to sleep a civilian and woke up a soldier.”
Momodu also dedicated the achievement to the memory of his late father, who served in the Nigeria Police Force, describing his enlistment as a continuation of his father’s legacy.
According to him, he honoured his father on April 12, 2026, exactly 20 years after his passing, by taking up a career in public service through enlistment in the U.S. Army.
The actor further revealed that he passed the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) examination on his first attempt and completed the military training successfully.
Expressing gratitude, Momodu dedicated the accomplishment to God, his late father, and the Royal Family of Oba Momodu II of the Avyuele Clan in Agbede, Etsako West Local Government Area.
He also appreciated those who supported him throughout the process, including his social media manager and officials at the U.S. Army Recruiting Station in Burbank, California, for facilitating his transition into military service.
Momodu’s enlistment marks a significant milestone in his career, as he transitions from the entertainment industry to military service while maintaining that the achievement was built on discipline, resilience and dedication.
