Brig.-Gen. Uche Nnabuihe has raised alarm over the low level of enlistment from the South-East into the Nigerian Army, revealing that Anambra State accounted for just 117 applications out of about 38,000 received nationwide.
He disclosed this while leading a Nigerian Army delegation to a sensitisation exercise in Awka, Anambra State, aimed at encouraging greater participation from youths in the region for the 91 Regular Recruits Intake, with the application deadline set for May 27.
Nnabuihe said the figures reflected records as of April 7, before a nationwide awareness campaign was launched to boost participation.
“We observed with concern that out of 38,000 applications received nationwide, only 117 came from Anambra as of April 7.
“This sensitisation is to correct that imbalance and encourage our youths to take advantage of opportunities in the Nigerian Army,” he said.
He stressed that the initiative was designed to address the imbalance and motivate qualified youths to consider a military career, noting that the Army offers structured professional development and avenues for national service.
Speaking further, Lt Col. Ogbemudia Osawe highlighted ongoing improvements in training capacity, including newly established institutions in Abakaliki and Osogbo to accommodate recruits.
Osawe also pointed to the benefits of military service, such as career advancement, consistent salary payments, continuous training, specialised military education, and exposure to different cultures.
He added that personnel are entitled to welfare packages, free medical care for families, pensions, gratuities, and opportunities for international assignments.
The Permanent Secretary of the Anambra Ministry of Youths, Ifeatu Emodi, commended the sensitisation effort, describing military enlistment as an important opportunity for youths in the South-East.
He attributed the low turnout to misinformation and misconceptions about military service.
Traditional ruler, Igwe Michael Okeke-Uche of Enugwu-Agidi, also praised the Army’s welfare structure and encouraged youths in the region to take advantage of the opportunity to enhance representation in the military.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the sensitisation event, held at the Ministry of Youths in Awka, attracted a large cross-section of young people.
