Lagos State government has admonished indigenous youths to join the military, saying it is not a death sentence.
Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations Olugbenga Oyerinde spoke yesterday at a seminar on the enrolment of Lagos indigenous youths into the Armed Forces, and enlightenment on prohibition of trafficking in persons.
With the theme: ‘Ignite: Sparkling Passion and Purpose’, the seminar was to motivate youths and equip them with the energy needed to overcome life’s challenges.
“It is meant to give our youths the much-needed energy in life to face the challenges or obstacles on their life journey”, Oyerinde said.
According to the commissioner, statistics have shown a dwindling in the enrolment of youths into the Armed Forces and the police, hence the need to sensitise them on the benefits of joining the Armed Forces.
Oyerinde also highlighted the challenges faced by youths, including unemployment, inability to access soft loans for small scale businesses, and lack of relevant skills to take up available job opportunities.
He noted that rejecting opportunities in the military, police force and paramilitary was a major regret.
Oyerinde, however, said the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda and inclusive programs of the current administration are aimed at addressing youth unemployment and promoting gender balance.
He said the government is committed to creating awareness about the opportunities available in the public, and encouraged youths to take advantage of them.
