Lagos State Government Launches Initiative to Enhance Youth Enrolment in Military and Combat Human Trafficking
The Lagos State Government has embarked on a proactive initiative to boost youth enrollment in the Nigerian Armed Forces and tackle human trafficking. This move is part of a broader strategy to address critical challenges facing the youth and foster their development.
On Thursday, the State Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, unveiled the new program during a seminar titled “Ignite: Sparkling Passion and Purpose.” This seminar, organized by the Ministry, aims to inspire and energize Lagos indigenous youths to pursue careers in the military and understand the importance of combating trafficking in persons.
Commissioner Oyerinde emphasized that the seminar’s goal is to provide youths with the motivation and tools needed to overcome life’s obstacles. He expressed concern over the significant decline in youth enrollment into the Nigerian Armed Forces and Police, highlighting the need to raise awareness about the benefits of such careers.
The Commissioner also addressed prevalent issues like unemployment and the lack of access to soft loans for small-scale businesses, underscoring that the current administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S agenda and inclusiveness programs are designed to tackle these challenges and promote gender balance.
Oyerinde urged youths to seize opportunities in the military and police sectors, cautioning that overlooking these options could lead to future regrets. He also mentioned that misconceptions about student loans have led to underutilization of these government initiatives, and he hopes for a robust turnout in the upcoming enrollment processes.
Hon. (Dr.) Rauf Olawale Age-Sulaiman, Chairman of the House Committee on Special Duties, Intergovernmental Relations, and Central Business District, also encouraged youths to consider careers in the military and police. He assured that the Ministry of Special Duties is actively working to address and resolve any difficulties faced during the recruitment process.
Additionally, Mrs. Islamiyah Opakunle, Deputy Director of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), urged parents to support their children in pursuing military careers, emphasizing that the profession offers valuable opportunities to serve the nation and should not be seen as a perilous choice.
This initiative reflects Lagos State’s commitment to enhancing youth engagement in national service and ensuring their well-being through informed career choices and protective measures against trafficking.
