The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low turnout of applicants from the South-East region in its ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise, revealing that only 200 youths from the region have so far registered.
Brigadier General Chima Ekeator, who leads the Army Headquarters Recruitment Sensitisation Team in Anambra State, made this known during an engagement session with youth leaders and President-Generals of various communities in the state.
Speaking at the sensitisation forum, Ekeator stressed the urgent need to rally support from community leaders to boost participation in the region. According to him, while other parts of the country have recorded no fewer than 4,000 applicants, the South-East remains significantly underrepresented.
“This outreach is vital because the numbers are not encouraging. Only 200 youths have registered from the entire South-East. We need youth leaders and community heads to return home and actively encourage young people to seize this opportunity,” he said. “A higher turnout will not only improve the region’s presence in the Army but also ensure that our quota is maximally utilised.”
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Lending support to the initiative, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting youth participation in national development efforts. Represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, the governor called on traditional rulers and community leaders to each mobilise at least 10 eligible youths from their communities to apply.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, highlighted that the recruitment drive specifically targets young Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 22. He urged eligible youths to consider careers in the military, noting the vital role the Army plays in safeguarding national security and unity.
