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| Army urges more South-East youth to register |
Brigadier‑General Chima Ekeator, who leads the Army Force Headquarters Recruitment Sensitisation Team in Anambra, reports that just 200 young people from the South‑East have signed up for the ongoing Nigerian Army drive. By contrast, many other states have recorded at least 4,000 applicants in the same period. His warning comes amid efforts to raise awareness and boost enrolment in the region .
The 89‑Regular Recruit Intake launched online on March 31 and will close on May 17, 2025. Interested Nigerians aged 18–22 must register at recruitment.army.mil.ng before the deadline. The portal opened in late March to allow ample time for form completion and document uploads .
Regional data underscore the gap. Kaduna State boasts over 3,000 candidates, while neighbouring Enugu has barely reached 100 registrants. This uneven spread mirrors a worrying pattern: southeastern states trail far behind peers in the North‑Central and South‑South, where numbers frequently exceed 4,000 per state .
Observers point to myths and low awareness as barriers. Ekeator has challenged rumours that Igbo applicants face higher casualty rates in active duty. He insists those claims lack basis, noting that officers of South‑East origin hold key posts at Army HQ. Still, many youths remain hesitant, citing family concerns and job market fears .
State authorities are stepping in. Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s office, via the Commissioner for Youth Development, urged community leaders to each mobilise ten young people. Traditional rulers and Presidents‑General were tasked with organising local drive‑through sessions, ensuring every ward hears about the benefits of service .
Experts say outreach must match the new generation’s media habits. The state Commissioner for Youths and Sports noted the global decline in military turnout. He called for digital campaigns, social‑media ads, and campus roadshows to spark interest before the May 17 deadline .
The recruitment targets single Nigerian citizens aged 18–22 for non‑trade roles, and up to 26 for tradesmen and women. All applicants need a valid NIN, BVN print‑out, and original academic certificates before proceeding to the screening phase in June .
Some youths cite better prospects in private sector and tech startups. Others worry about life‑long service terms. What do you think—should the Army offer short‑term contracts, enhanced training stipends, or clear career pathways to attract more South‑East candidates? .
As registration nears midpoint, the focus turns to mobilising villages and online communities. Young Nigerians keen to join can still apply at recruitment.army.mil.ng. Local councils, NGOs, and schools are urged to host info sessions before May 17, 2025. What steps will you take to spread the word? .