In a heartfelt appeal, the Lagos State Government is calling on young people to consider enlisting in the military. This initiative aims to strengthen the state’s role in national security and ensure that local youths contribute to the safety of their communities. The plea was made by Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the State Government, during a recent meeting with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in Ikeja.
Salu-Hundeyin emphasized that the security of a nation is a collective responsibility, urging that military service is not just for a select few but a duty that all citizens should consider. She expressed disappointment over the low number of local youths who have enrolled in the military, highlighting that recent recruitment drives have shown a concerning lack of participation from Lagos indigenes.
“It’s disheartening to know that indigenous youths of the state were not enrolling into the military, as seen during the last recruitment,” she remarked. This lack of involvement raises concerns about the representation of Lagos in the military and the broader implications for national security.
According to Salu-Hundeyin, the Federal Government has established a fair recruitment process, with each state allotted 150 slots for military positions. However, she pointed out that Lagos State has not filled its quota effectively, leading to a significant underrepresentation of its youths in the armed forces. “We discovered that in the military in Nigeria, Lagos State has been seriously short-changed. We hardly have people there,” she noted.
This situation not only affects the state’s presence in the military but also deprives young individuals of the opportunity to serve their country and gain valuable skills. Enlisting in the military can provide numerous benefits, including job training, education, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in society.
Salu-Hundeyin encouraged young people to view military service as an honorable profession that plays a crucial role in protecting the nation. She stated, “The military is about the security of a nation, and the security of any nation must be everybody’s business.” This message emphasizes that everyone has a role to play in maintaining peace and security.
The Secretary also acknowledged that while not everyone can wear a military uniform, those who are willing to serve should take advantage of the recruitment opportunities available. “If your state does not participate, you are short-changing your state,” she warned, highlighting the importance of local involvement in national defense.
The Lagos State Government’s appeal for youths to join the military is a significant reminder of the critical role that young people play in shaping the future of their communities and country. As security challenges continue to evolve, it is essential for local youths to step up and take an active role in ensuring the safety of their state and nation. By enlisting in the military, they can contribute to a safer future while gaining invaluable experience and skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
As the government works to create more awareness about military service, it is hoped that more young people will recognize the importance of this call to action and consider joining the ranks of those who serve their country with pride and dedication.
