Army Urges More South-East Youths To Participate In Ongoing Recruitment Exercise Following Low Turnout In Registration.
The Nigerian Army has raised concern over the low number of applicants from the South-East in its ongoing recruitment exercise, revealing that only 200 youths from the region have registered so far.
This was disclosed by Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, leader of the Army Force Headquarters Recruitment Sensitisation Team, during a sensitisation programme held for youth leaders and President-Generals (P-Gs) of various communities in Anambra State.
According to Ekeator, the figure falls far below expectations, especially when compared with other regions where individual states have recorded over 4,000 applications.
“This sensitisation is necessary because, according to records, only 200 persons have registered from the South-East, while in other states, not less than 4,000 persons have registered,” he said. “We are calling on youth leaders and P-Gs to return to their communities and encourage the youths to take part in the recruitment exercise.”
Ekeator stressed the importance of improving the South-East’s representation in the military, noting that higher participation would help the region utilise its quota within the force.
“Increased youth participation will enhance the representation of the South-East in the force, ensuring that the region’s quota is fully utilised,” he added.
In his remarks, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, gave assurance that the state government would intensify efforts to sensitise and mobilise young people to embrace the opportunity. Represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Aghambah, the governor urged traditional rulers and community leaders to play active roles in the mobilisation process.
“We are encouraging all traditional rulers and P-Gs to collaborate and mobilise at least 10 eligible youths from each community to participate in the ongoing recruitment,” Aghambah stated.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, explained that the recruitment is open to youths between the ages of 18 and 22. He called on young people to seize the opportunity and consider a career in the Army.
The ongoing recruitment forms part of the Nigerian Army’s drive to boost national security while ensuring regional inclusion and balance in its personnel structure.
