Army Expresses Concern Over Low Recruitment from South-East States
The Nigerian Army has raised concerns about the low number of applications from the South-East region for its 2025 recruitment campaign. This issue was highlighted by Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator during a visit to Enugu on Sunday.
Key Issue: Low Application Numbers
While other regions, like Kaduna, have seen more than 3,000 applications, Enugu recorded only around 100 applications—a trend that has been observed across the South-East. Ekeator urged youth in the region to apply more in order to fill their allocated quotas.
“We are losing opportunities that rightfully belong to us. Every year, when recruitment slots are allocated to our region, the number of applicants remains disappointingly low,” Ekeator explained. He emphasized that, for example, Enugu State was allocated 200 slots, but fewer than 100 applicants met the requirements.
Clarifying False Allegations
Addressing rumors that South-East soldiers are sent to the frontlines first and often suffer higher casualties, Ekeator refuted these claims. “There are falsehoods circulating, stating that Igbos are being killed because they are the first to be sent to battle. These claims are untrue. In fact, South-East officers, like Chibueze Ogbuabor, hold strategic positions in the Army today,” he clarified.
Efforts to Engage Youth
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, expressed regret that the low recruitment numbers persist despite efforts to reverse the trend. He suggested that more modern strategies for recruitment be adopted, especially in how the military communicates with younger generations.
“Militaries worldwide are using cutting-edge strategies to engage youth, and the Army must evolve in its recruitment efforts,” Ekweremadu said. He also reiterated Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to filling Enugu’s recruitment slots, noting the military’s respected status as a career.
Support from Local Leaders
Local government leaders, including Hon. Okechukwu Edeh (Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria) and Lt. Col. Israel Mbah (rtd.), voiced support for the Army’s recruitment drive. Mbah, a retired military officer, encouraged the youth to join the military, citing his own success and survival as a military officer.
“I survived wars and now serve as a traditional ruler. I believe our young people should join the force,” Mbah stated.
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Army Expresses Concern Over Low Recruitment from South-East States