“Train All NYSC Members to Boost National Security,” Pastor Ashimolowo Tells FG

Matthew Ashimolowo has called on the Federal Government to incorporate structured security training into the National Youth Service Corps as part of a broader push to strengthen internal security. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, the founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre said empowering corps members with basic security skills would raise vigilance nationwide and increase community-level response to threats.

He argued that young Nigerians represent a powerful asset that can be harnessed for national protection, noting that roughly 60 percent of the population is under 30. Drawing inspiration from Israel’s conscription system, he suggested that NYSC members could be trained to contribute meaningfully to national defence efforts.

Ashimolowo urged the public to support President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing security reforms, saying collective effort is essential to building a safer country. He encouraged citizens to back increased policing and military deployment, emphasizing unity in tackling insecurity.

While acknowledging debates around the creation of state police, he warned that such formations could be vulnerable to political misuse if not carefully implemented. He maintained that the priority should be equipping citizens, especially the youth, with the awareness and discipline needed to maintain security.

Ashimolowo concluded by calling for a national commitment to vigilance, stressing that Nigeria’s human capital and leadership resolve can be leveraged to build a more secure and confident nation.