The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low enlistment of youths from the South East, particularly Enugu State, in the ongoing 2025 military recruitment exercise. While Kaduna State has seen over 3,000 applications, Enugu has recorded only about 100, despite being allocated around 200 slots. Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, leading the recruitment enlightenment team, urged Southeast youths to participate actively, dispelling myths about Igbo soldiers being unfairly targeted in battle.
At a town hall meeting with community leaders, he emphasized that Igbos hold strategic positions in the Army, citing examples like Chibueze Ogbuabor. Enugu State’s Commissioner for Youths, Dr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, acknowledged the persistent issue and called for better communication strategies to attract young applicants. Other local leaders echoed the need for increased awareness and reaffirmed the nobility of military service, encouraging youths to consider it as a viable career path.
