The Leader, Army Force Headquarters Recruitment Sensitisation Team, Anambra, Brig.-Gen. Chima Ekeator, says barely 200 youths from the South-East have registered for the present Army recruitment in the country.
Ekeator made the disclosure during a sensitisation event for young leaders and President-Generals (P-Gs) from various communities in the state.
He stated that there was a need to encourage youths from various communities to engage in the activity.
“This sensitisation is necessary because, according to records, only 200 persons have registered from the South-East, while in other states, not less than 4000 persons have registered.
“We are calling on youth leaders and P-Gs to go to their communities to talk to the youths and encourage them to take part in the recruitment.
“Increased youth participation will enhance the representation of the South-East in the force, ensuring that the region’s quota is fully utilised,” Ekeator said.
In a statement, Anambra Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo assured that the government would continue to raise awareness about the activity and encourage youth participation.
Soludo, represented by Commissioner for Youth Development Mr Patrick Aghambah, asked traditional rulers and P-Gs to work together to mobilise 10 youths from each community to join the Army through the ongoing recruitment process.
Mr Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, stated that the recruiting campaign targeted youths aged 18 to 22 and encouraged them to join the Army.