On Wednesday, the Lagos State Government urged indigenous youths to enlist in the military to enhance national security and ensure proper representation from the state. This appeal was made by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during a quarterly meeting in Ikeja with the Chairman and members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).
Emphasizing the Importance of Military Service
Salu-Hundeyin highlighted the significance of military service, stating that “security of a nation is everybody’s business.” She expressed disappointment over the low enrollment of Lagos indigenes in the military, particularly during the recent recruitment drives. According to her, the Federal Government allocates 150 slots for each state, but Lagos has been notably underrepresented.
“We discovered that in the military in Nigeria, Lagos State has been seriously short-changed. We hardly have people there. So, we are looking at this opportunity now, that it should not escape indigenes again,” she said.
Changing Perceptions of Military Careers
Salu-Hundeyin also stressed the importance of changing the perception of military careers among youths. She noted that military roles extend beyond combat, allowing for various professions such as medical doctors, nurses, and mechanics. “Today, the military is not just about gun carrying… It’s not as if it is a bad thing to do. It is the number one service you can give to your nation,” she added.
She encouraged the youths to recognize that joining the military is a proud and significant contribution to their state and country, stating, “If your state does not participate, you are short-changing your state.”
Community Perspectives on Military Service
Apostle Kehinde Sowemimo, Chairman of the PCRC, echoed Salu-Hundeyin’s sentiments, highlighting the need to alter the mindset that discourages youths from pursuing military careers. He emphasized that joining the military does not equate to a death sentence and that it is crucial for all regions of Nigeria to contribute to national defense.
“It is continuing education of our people, letting them know that military is not signing off to death. Joining the military or joining the police enhances your generational belief and makes your community safer,” Sowemimo stated.
Community Security Initiatives
Sowemimo also discussed the role of the PCRC in complementing government efforts to enhance security at the local level. He mentioned recent challenges, such as the resurfacing menace of lorries at the Apapa axis and the growing issue of petrol hawking due to scarcity. He called on the government to improve the availability of fuel and address the lack of vehicles at police stations for effective service delivery.
As the Lagos State Government continues to advocate for military enrollment among indigenous youths, it seeks to foster a more inclusive and engaged approach to national security, emphasizing the importance of representation from all regions of Nigeria.