In a country where many young people see politics as a shortcut to influence and financial success, a former National Youth Service Corps Director-General has a different message: build a career first.
Retired Major General Johnson Olawumi says young Nigerians should focus on acquiring skills, gaining professional experience, and establishing themselves in their chosen fields before venturing into politics.
He gave the advice on Wednesday while speaking to youths at a campaign rally in Osogbo, Osun State, organised by Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the re-election campaign of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
According to Olawumi, politics should not be seen as a substitute for personal development or professional achievement. Rather, it should be a platform for service by individuals who have already built credibility outside public office.
For students and young graduates preparing for life after school, his message centres on creating value and securing a stable source of livelihood before seeking political positions.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
The former NYSC DG argued that politicians with independent careers are often better positioned to make decisions based on conviction rather than pressure from political sponsors.
He warned that relying entirely on politics for survival could leave individuals vulnerable to manipulation by powerful interests.
“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.
Olawumi also observed that some politicians struggle to remain relevant after leaving office because they failed to develop careers or professional identities outside politics.
However, he stressed that his comments should not be interpreted as discouraging youth participation in governance.
Instead, he described his advice as a call for young Nigerians to enter politics from a position of strength, backed by skills, experience, and financial independence.
As more young Nigerians push for greater representation in leadership, his message serves as a reminder that political ambition and career development do not have to compete. In fact, one may strengthen the other.
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