Army Decries Low Enlistment of South East Youth

The army has observed the low enlistment of youth from South East if the country where they hardly take up their state quotas.

A recent recruitment drive in 2025 laid bare the stark regional disinterest, with Enugu State mustering only about 100 applications for 200 available slots, while Kaduna State garnered an overwhelming 3,000 applications.

This glaring lack of interest has prompted Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, leader of the Army’s recruitment enlightenment team, to urge South East youths to come forward and apply in greater numbers.

The Brigadier-General’s appeal is not merely a numbers game; it is a call to ensure the region’s representation in the military is not further eroded.

He emphasized that the South East risks losing its voice and influence within the armed forces if the trend continues.

To allay concerns, Ekeator debunked claims that Igbo soldiers are disproportionately deployed to dangerous fronts, citing the example of high-ranking South Eastern officers like Chibueze Ogbuabor as evidence of fair opportunities and career advancement.

However, the underlying reasons for the South East’s reluctance to enlist are complex and multifaceted. Some attribute it to historical marginalization, a deep-seated mistrust of federal institutions, and the influence of groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which actively discourages youths from joining the military.

IPOB’s narrative that South Eastern soldiers are used as “cannon fodder” in conflicts like the Boko Haram insurgency has resonated with many, further exacerbating the recruitment crisis.

Local leaders and stakeholders have suggested that the Army must address the root causes of this reluctance, rather than merely ramping up recruitment efforts. They argue that better awareness, improved welfare conditions, and post-service benefits could help alleviate concerns and attract more applicants. The deplorable state of barracks, inadequate equipment, and uncertain post-service prospects have all contributed to the perception that a military career is unappealing and even perilous.

The issue is also inextricably linked to broader socio-political dynamics. Statements like Dave Umahi’s claim about Tinubu’s eight-year tenure can deepen regional skepticism, particularly in the South East, where political promises are often met with distrust. If the Army genuinely seeks to engage with the region and boost recruitment, it must tackle these perceptions head-on, rather than simply dismissing them as misconceptions.

Ultimately, the Nigerian Army’s ability to address the recruitment imbalance and ensure fair representation from all regions is crucial for national cohesion and stability. By acknowledging and addressing the historical grievances, mistrust, and welfare concerns that underpin the South East’s reluctance to enlist, the Army can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable institution. This, in turn, can help to foster a sense of shared citizenship and common purpose, essential for a united and prosperous Nigeria.

By adopting a comprehensive and inclusive approach, the Nigerian Army can begin to bridge the recruitment gap and ensure that the South East region is fairly represented within its ranks. This, in turn, can help to promote national cohesion, stability, and prosperity, as a more diverse and equitable military institution contributes to a stronger, more united Nigeria.