Build a career before politics, Ex-NYSC boss tells Nigerian youths

Young Nigerians seeking political office should first focus on building credible careers, acquiring skills and establishing personal integrity before venturing into politics, former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC),  Johnson Olawumi Maj.-Gen (retd), has advised.

Speaking at a youth engagement and campaign rally in Osogbo, Osun State, on Wednesday, Olawumi warned that politics without a solid professional foundation often leaves individuals vulnerable to manipulation, financial dependence and loss of relevance after leaving public office.

The retired Army General, who addressed participants at an event organised by Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the re-election campaign of Governor Ademola Adeleke, said politics should be seen as a platform for service rather than a substitute for personal development and career growth.

According to him, many of Nigeria’s most respected leaders earned public trust long before entering politics because they had already distinguished themselves in their professional careers.

“Politics should not be your first source of identity or livelihood,” Olawumi said. “When politics is over, you should be able to return to your profession and continue to thrive. That is why young people must build something for themselves first.”

He noted that political careers are often uncertain and temporary, making it risky for individuals to depend entirely on public office for survival.

“A strong career gives you stability. It ensures that even when public office ends, your value, relevance and means of livelihood remain intact,” he added.

To underscore his point, Olawumi cited notable Nigerian political figures, including former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, whom he described as examples of leaders whose professional achievements enhanced their credibility and effectiveness in governance.

The former NYSC boss argued that professional success often equips leaders with the discipline, competence and independence required to make difficult decisions in public office.

He further warned that politicians who lack independent sources of income are more likely to succumb to pressure from political sponsors and powerful interests.

“If your survival depends entirely on politics, it becomes difficult to stand by your convictions,” he said. “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.”

Olawumi also observed that many politicians without established careers struggle to remain relevant after leaving office, often resorting to controversy and constant political agitation to stay in the public eye.

He, however, clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as opposition to youth participation in politics. Rather, he said, the message was a call for young Nigerians to enter public service from a position of strength, competence and self-reliance.

According to him, the future of Nigeria’s leadership depends not only on greater youth involvement in politics but also on ensuring that those aspiring to lead possess the professional experience, integrity and independence necessary to govern effectively.