The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low number of applicants from the South East in its ongoing 2025 recruitment drive and urged youths from the region to take advantage of the opportunity.
During a town hall meeting in Enugu with local government chairmen, traditional leaders, and community heads, the Army revealed a stark contrast in application rates between regions. While Kaduna State has received over 3,000 applications, Enugu State is struggling with just about 100, despite being allotted around 200 slots.
Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, who leads the 2025 Army Recruitment Enlightenment Team, said this pattern has been consistent across the South East.
“We’re seeing our people miss out on opportunities that belong to them. Low application rates mean we can’t even fill the allocated slots during screening,” he stated.
He dismissed claims that Igbo soldiers are unfairly sent to the front lines, leading to higher casualties.
“Those allegations are false. Many Igbo officers hold key positions in the Army today—one of our own, Chibueze Ogbuabor, is a top commander overseeing military equipment,” he explained.
Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, acknowledged that current recruitment strategies might not resonate with today’s youth. He called for modernised outreach efforts, stressing the need to better communicate the benefits of military service.
“Globally, armed forces are adjusting their recruitment methods to connect with the younger generation. We need to do the same,” he said, affirming Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to increasing Enugu’s participation in the Army.
ALGON Enugu chairman, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, pledged more support from the local government level but urged the military to also address concerns that discourage enlistment.
Other community voices, including Hon. Arinze Ogbodo, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu, and Lt. Col. Israel Mbah (rtd.), echoed the call for increased awareness and urged young people to see the Army as a respectable and honorable career path.
“I served and survived the war. Today, I serve as a traditional ruler. Our youths should not shy away from the military—it is a path of service and dignity,” said Lt. Col. Mbah.