APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe has expressed concern over the reported low participation of young people from Nigeria’s South-East in the ongoing Nigerian Army recruitment exercise, warning that the region could face long-term consequences if the trend continues.
Speaking in reaction to reports that several recruitment slots allocated to the South-East remain vacant while applicants from other regions continue to fill their quotas, Igbokwe described the situation as alarming. He argued that military recruitment is not only about securing employment but also about ensuring that every part of the country is fairly represented in key national institutions.
According to him, continued low participation by South-Eastern youths could reduce the region’s presence and influence within Nigeria’s armed forces. He stressed that adequate representation in the military is important for fostering national unity, promoting inclusiveness, and giving every region a voice in matters of national security.
Igbokwe therefore urged eligible youths from the South-East to reconsider their attitude toward military service. He maintained that joining the Nigerian Army offers opportunities for career development, discipline, leadership training, and service to the nation.
His remarks have sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some agreed that the South-East should take advantage of available recruitment opportunities to strengthen its representation in the military, others pointed to insecurity, historical grievances, and distrust of government institutions as factors discouraging many young people from enlisting.
The comments have once again brought attention to the broader conversation about regional participation in Nigeria’s security institutions, with many observers calling for efforts to build greater trust and encourage equal representation across all parts of the country.
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