The Nigerian Army has raised concerns about South East youths avoiding recruitment, with many slots unfilled. Brigadier General Chima Ekeator urged sensitization efforts during his visit to Abia State. Governor Alex Otti assured increased awareness to encourage youth participation in the Army for national security and development.
The Nigerian Army is facing a significant challenge in recruiting youths from the South East, with a noticeable reluctance to join the armed forces. Brigadier General Chima Ekeator, leading the Army's 2025 recruitment awareness campaign, highlighted that the region has failed to fill many of the recruitment slots allocated to it. Ekeator, speaking during his visit to Abia State, emphasized the importance of educating young people about the opportunities within the Army and their crucial role in national security.
Ekeator pointed out that, in the previous year, despite Abia State receiving almost 200 recruitment slots, only 53 applicants came forward. The trend has been similar across other states in the region. He stressed the need for greater awareness to ensure that more youths take advantage of these opportunities.
During his visit, Ekeator met with local traditional rulers and mayors to discuss the recruitment issue, urging them to help spread the message. He also commended the support of the state government in aiding the recruitment process.
Governor Alex Otti’s representative, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, assured the Army that the state would establish outreach programs to engage youths more effectively. He stressed the importance of security in the region’s economic growth, promising that the government would enhance its efforts to ensure youths understand the value of joining the Army. Otti also expressed gratitude for the Army's continued engagement with local leaders and stakeholders, emphasizing that such collaboration is key to integrating the Southeast into the broader national security framework.
