‘Why we are turning our backs on Nigerian Army’ – South-East youths

Last month, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed concern over the lack of interest from youths in the South-East region of Nigeria to join the Nigerian Army. Shaibu highlighted the declining recruitment from the South-East, which has remained unfilled for several years. He appealed to traditional rulers, parents, and community leaders in the region to encourage eligible young men and women to consider military service as an honorable calling.

However, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of Abia State, stated that many youths in his area are unwilling to apply for military service due to various issues such as hatred, tribalism, and religious divisions. Another APC chieftain, Joe Igbokwe, warned that the South-East might face serious consequences if they continue to reject Army recruitment.

Aloy Ejimakor, a human rights lawyer, argued that the reluctance of Igbo youths to enlist in the Nigerian armed forces is a calculated refusal to serve an institution they deeply mistrust, citing historical grievances and perceived marginalization within the security services.