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.
