Ex-NYSC DG to youths: Don’t depend on politics

A former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Maj-Gen Johnson Olawumi (retd), has warned the youths against relying on politics as their primary means of livelihood, saying such dependence often makes politicians vulnerable to manipulation and pressure from political sponsors.

The retired Army General, according to a statement on Friday, gave the warning while interacting with some youths on Wednesday in Osogbo, Osun State, at a campaign rally organised by the spokesperson for the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke, Pelumi Olajengbesi.

Olawumi advised young Nigerians to focus on building credible careers and acquiring valuable skills before venturing into politics, describing professional competence as the strongest foundation for effective leadership and public service.

According to him, politics should not be seen as a substitute for personal development or professional accomplishment but as a platform for service by individuals who have already established themselves in their chosen fields.

He said some of the country’s most respected political leaders earned public trust long before seeking political office because they had distinguished themselves professionally.

“When politics is over, they return to their professions and continue to thrive. That is why young people must first build something for themselves. Politics should not be your first source of identity or livelihood.

“Politics is not guaranteed. A strong career gives you stability. It ensures that even when public office ends, your value, relevance and means of livelihood remain intact,” he said.

Olawumi noted that the financial realities of Nigerian politics can easily compromise individuals who lack independent means of livelihood.

He observed that politicians who have no established careers or professional achievements outside politics often struggle to remain relevant after leaving office, sometimes resorting to constant political controversies and agitation for attention.

“If your survival depends entirely on politics, it becomes difficult to stand by your convictions. You become susceptible to pressure from political sponsors and power brokers. But when you have built your own career and earned your own income, you have the freedom to serve with integrity,” he said.

The retired General, however, clarified that his advice should not be misconstrued as discouraging youth participation in politics.

Rather, he described it as a call for young Nigerians to enter politics from a position of strength.