‘Guard Your Integrity, Build Career Before Politics’, Ex-NYSC DG Urges Youths

A former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Maj-Gen Johnson Olawumi (rtd), has urged Nigerian youths 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.

The retired Army General gave the advice while interacting with youths on Wednesday in Osogbo, Osun State, at a campaign rally organised by Pelumi Olajengbesi, the spokesperson for the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party.

General Olawumi stressed that politics should not be viewed as a substitute for personal development or professional accomplishment. Rather, he said, it should be approached as a platform for service by individuals who have already established themselves in their chosen fields.

According to him, some of Nigeria’s most respected political leaders earned public trust long before seeking political office because they had distinguished themselves professionally.

He said, “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 pointed to prominent figures such as former Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola; former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and former Ekiti State governor Kayode Fayemi, as examples of leaders whose professional accomplishments strengthened their capacity to govern and enhanced their credibility in public office.

General Olawumi warned that entering politics without a solid career foundation often leaves young people vulnerable to manipulation and dependency.

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

The retired Army General observed that politicians who have no established careers or professional achievements outside politics often struggle to remain relevant once they leave 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.

He was, however, quick to clarify that his advice should not be misconstrued as discouraging youth participation in politics. Instead, he described it as a call for young Nigerians to enter politics from a position of strength.