The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low turnout of youth from the South-Eastern region for enlistment into the military.
- +Army decries low turnout of South-East youth for military recruitment
Speaking during a sensitization campaign in Awka, Brig.-Gen.
Speaking during a sensitization campaign in Awka, Brig.-Gen. Uche Nnabuihe raised the issue, revealing that Anambra state recorded only 117 applications out of 38,000 nationwide for the 91 Regular Recruits Intake Exercise.
Registration for the recruitment, which is open to both tradesmen and non-tradesmen, began on March 30 and will run until May 17, 2026.
Nnabuihe led an Army delegation to Awka to sensitise youth in Anambra about the recruitment process. He highlighted that the figures were recorded as of April 7, prior to the nationwide awareness campaign.
He stressed that the Nigerian Army offers structured career paths, national service opportunities, and various benefits.
Lt.-Col. Ogbemudia Osawe shared additional information about the Army’s expanded training infrastructure, which now includes new facilities in Abakaliki and Osogbo to accommodate more recruits.
Osawe emphasized the benefits of joining the Army, including career progression, regular pay, continuous military education, and specialised training.
Recruits also enjoy welfare packages, free medical care for their families, pensions, gratuities, and the opportunity for international assignments.
Ifeatu Emodi, Permanent Secretary of the Anambra Ministry of Youths, commended the initiative. He pointed out that declining interest among youth is due to misconceptions and misinformation about the Army.
The Nigerian Army has made the 91 Regular Recruits Intake Exercise accessible online for both tradesmen and non-tradesmen.
The recruitment process is part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its personnel capacity.
Successful candidates will undergo screening in their respective states of origin from June 9 to 23, 2026.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
The Army is keen to improve recruitment from the South-East and encourage youth to explore the opportunities in the military service.
