WHY SOUTH EAST YOUTHS ARE SHUNNING NIGERIAN ARMY RECRUITMENT | WHAT'S DRIVING THE DECLINE?

The Nigerian Army has once again expressed concern over the low number of recruits from the South East, with the Chief of Army Staff revealing that the region failed to fill its allocated recruitment quota despite repeated appeals. The development has reignited a national conversation about youth participation in military service and what it means for the South East's representation in Nigeria's security institutions. On this edition of the programme, Chukwuma Okenwa, Executive Director of Lead Network Africa, examines the factors behind the recurring trend and its implications for the region and the country. The discussion explores whether the low turnout is driven by a lack of interest in military careers, economic opportunities elsewhere, migration, security concerns, or broader issues of trust between communities and the armed forces. It also considers how underrepresentation could affect the South East's role within Nigeria's security architecture and what practical steps government, military authorities, traditional leaders, and civil society can take to encourage greater participation. As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, the conversation also looks at the importance of inclusive national institutions and the need to ensure that all regions have meaningful opportunities to contribute to national service. Watch this insightful discussion as we unpack one of the country's most important security and public policy debates. Do you think more South East youths should consider careers in the Nigerian Army? What can be done to improve participation? Share your views in the comments below. #NigerianArmy #SouthEastNigeria #ArmyRecruitment #Security #NigeriaNews #Military #YouthDevelopment #PublicAffairs #LeadNetworkAfrica #ChukwumaOkenwa #NationalSecurity #CurrentAffairs #AfiaTV #Nigeria #Governance