Army Chief Urges Youth to Embrace Military Career

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged young Nigerians to consider a career in the military, highlighting the importance of discipline, patriotism, and national service.

He made the call on Friday during a public engagement organised by the Nigerian Army at Idris Koko Technical College, Farfaru, Sokoto, as part of its ongoing civil-military relations initiative.

Represented by Brigadier General A. A. Musa, Commander of the 108 Division Equipment Service, Oluyede said the event was aimed at enlightening students on the role of the military in nation-building and encouraging positive youth development.

General Musa noted that the engagement also served as a platform for students to interact directly with Army personnel and ask questions about military service.

“It is our hope that through this initiative, more young Nigerians will consider a career in the Army and understand the importance of discipline, patriotism, and service to the nation,” he stated.

The program featured a series of impactful talks. Captain Musa Lemu, the Administrative Officer of the 8 Provost Group Office, spoke on “The Need to Avoid Criminal Associations and Criminality,” urging students to stay away from crime and focus on their education and personal development.

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Another highlight of the event was a powerful advocacy lecture on “The Dangers of Cultism,” delivered by a National Youth Service Corps member, Janet, who shared real-life examples to warn students against joining cult groups.

Lieutenant E. O. Ojo also delivered a presentation on “Civil-Military Relations and Community Interventions by the Nigerian Army,” highlighting various humanitarian efforts by the Army, including free medical outreach, distribution of educational materials, and the construction of boreholes in water-scarce communities.

The Director of Quality Assurance at the State Ministry of Science and Technology, Mallam Musa Koko, who represented the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, commended the Army for its proactive role in shaping young minds.

He noted that such engagements complement the state’s educational policies and career day initiatives aimed at preparing students for life after school.

“We are in an age where technology and discipline are crucial. Programs like this help our students to envision meaningful futures and inspire them to contribute to national development,” he said.

The event was well attended by students, teachers, Army personnel, and government officials, and featured an interactive session that allowed students to express their thoughts and curiosity about the military profession.