By

Chinenye Chukwuma

 

The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low number of applications from Southeast states, particularly Enugu, for its 2025 recruitment drive. Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator revealed that Enugu has only about 100 applications, significantly lower than Kaduna State's 3,000 applications. The army has urged Southeast youths to apply in greater numbers to fill their allocated quotas.

According to him, requirements for Nigerian Army Recruitment includes ; Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth. Age 18-22 years for non-trades applicants and 18-26 years for trades applicants. Males must be at least 1.68 meters tall, and females must be at least 1.65 meters tall. At least 4 passes in no more than two sittings in WASSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB.

The Applicants must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit according to Nigerian Army standards.

He said that benefits of Serving in the Nigerian Army include Stable job and career advancement possibilities. Enhanced Pay and Allowances. Competitive salary and benefits.  Opportunities to further education. Interaction with diverse cultural and religious groups. Improved Welfare and Insurance Service. Access to enhanced welfare and insurance plans.  Opportunities for soldiers to own houses in preferred locations across Nigeria. Pension and Gratuity. Provision of pension and retirement benefits 

He said that the application process for the Nigerian Army recruitment is ongoing, and interested candidates can apply online through the official recruitment portal.

The army has denied allegations that people from the Southeast are being killed in large numbers due to being sent to battlefronts first, stating that individuals from the region hold strategic positions in the army.