NIGERIA: The Nigerian Army has expressed serious concern over the persistently low turnout of applicants from the South-East region in its ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise, warning that the trend could further widen regional imbalances in the military.
The concern was raised during a sensitisation campaign held in Awka, Anambra State, led by Brigadier-General Uche Nnabuihe.
According to the Army, Anambra State recorded only 117 applications out of a total of 38,000 submissions nationwide for the 91 Regular Recruits Intake Exercise as of 7 April 2026. Officials described the figure as significantly low considering the state’s population and the pool of eligible youths.
The recruitment exercise, which began on 30 March 2026 and is open to both tradesmen and non-tradesmen, is scheduled to close on 17 May 2026.
Addressing participants at the event, Brigadier-General Nnabuihe said the sensitisation campaign was designed to address the imbalance and raise awareness about opportunities in the Nigerian Army.
“Out of 38,000 applications nationwide, only 117 came from Anambra. This is a serious concern and underscores the need for increased awareness and participation from the South-East,” he stated.
He explained that the current figures were compiled before the nationwide awareness campaign began, and expressed hope that the outreach would boost participation from underrepresented regions.
Nnabuihe urged eligible youths in Anambra and across the South-East to take advantage of the remaining window to apply, emphasising that the Army offers not only employment but also a pathway to national service, career development, and skills acquisition.
“This sensitisation is to correct that imbalance and encourage our youths to take advantage of opportunities in the Nigerian Army,” he added.
The low turnout from the South-East has been a recurring issue in recent recruitment exercises. Analysts attribute it to a combination of historical grievances, security concerns, perceptions of unfairness in federal institutions, and limited trust in government structures.
During the sensitisation event, Army officials addressed some of these concerns, stressing transparency in the recruitment process and urging youths to disregard misinformation. They also highlighted the benefits of military service, including training, education, healthcare, and long-term career opportunities.
Local stakeholders expressed mixed reactions. While some welcomed the Army’s outreach, others noted that sustained engagement and trust-building would be necessary to overcome deep-seated fears.
A youth leader in Awka said many young people in the region remain hesitant due to concerns about safety and deployment conditions.
“There is still fear among some youths about joining the military, especially with ongoing security challenges across the country,” he said. “But with proper information and assurance, more people may be willing to consider it.”
The Nigerian Army maintains that increased participation from all regions is essential for national unity and equitable representation. Officials say a diverse recruitment base strengthens the institution and improves its effectiveness across Nigeria’s diverse cultural and geographical landscape.
As the 17 May deadline approaches, the Army has intensified sensitisation efforts in states with historically low turnout. Brigadier-General Nnabuihe reiterated that the recruitment process is free and merit-based, warning applicants to avoid fraudsters who demand money for enlistment.
With just weeks remaining, the success of the renewed campaign in bridging the participation gap remains to be seen, but the Army insists that continued engagement is key to changing perceptions and encouraging more youths from the South-East to consider a military career.
