The Nigerian Army has raised serious concern over the low turnout of youths from the South East in the ongoing 2025 military recruitment exercise, calling for urgent change in attitude towards enlistment.
Speaking during a town hall meeting in Enugu with local government chairmen, traditional leaders, and community representatives, Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, who heads the 2025 Army recruitment enlightenment team, revealed a stark contrast in application numbers across the country.
While Kaduna State has received over 3,000 applications, Enugu State has barely managed 100.
General Ekeator expressed worry that despite Enugu being allocated 200 recruitment slots, the number of applicants remains significantly low, a pattern also observed across other South Eastern states.
“Our people are losing opportunities that rightfully belong to them,” he said. “Year after year, we see poor application numbers from the region, and it’s affecting how many youths from here get recruited.”
He debunked widespread claims that Igbo soldiers are targeted or sent first to dangerous zones, noting that many Igbos are currently holding strategic positions within the military.
“These are unfounded fears. For instance, one of our top commanders in charge of Army equipment is an Igbo man, Chibueze Ogbuabor,” he added.
In support of the call for change, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, acknowledged the issue and emphasized the need to modernize outreach strategies to better engage the younger generation.
“The military remains a noble and globally respected profession, and our youths should not be left behind,” he said.
Also lending their voices were the Chairman of ALGON Enugu Chapter, Okechukwu Edeh; traditional ruler Lt. Col. Israel Mbah (retd.); and other community leaders, who all urged the military to intensify its enlightenment campaigns while addressing community concerns to make military service more attractive.
“I was in the military and survived multiple wars. Today, I serve as a traditional ruler. I believe our young people can also serve and succeed,” said Lt. Col. Mbah.
As the recruitment exercise continues, leaders across the South East are urging eligible youths to seize the opportunity and fill their quotas before it’s too late.
Are you a young person from the South East? Don’t miss this chance to serve your country with pride. Enlist in the Nigerian Army today and be part of something greater!
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