In a surprising yet controversial move, senior pastor Matt Ashimolowo of Kingsway International Christian Centre is demanding the Federal Government implement an ambitious plan to involve National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in the nation's security strategies. Can this really be the solution Nigeria has been waiting for, or is it just more empty rhetoric?
Speaking in a recent interview with Channels Television, Ashimolowo urged the government to take immediate action, claiming that training NYSC members in security awareness would be a game-changer. “Imagine our NYSC guys on the lookout! They’ll spot someone simply smoking hemp and alert the authorities before any real crime takes place!” he exclaimed, pushing for a panic-driven approach to community safety.
The pastor has thrown his full support behind President Buhari’s push for increased military and police presence throughout the country. “Nigeria is in desperate need of revival. We must back our president in his quest for more soldiers and police on our streets!” he declared, presenting an almost desperate plea for unity in tackling the nation’s escalating security issues.
Ashimolowo took it a step further, comparing Nigeria to Israel, where military service is mandatory for young people. “Look at Israel! Their youth serve in the army from 18 to 22. Why can’t Nigeria adopt this model?” he questioned, seemingly overlooking the complexities of Nigeria’s own socio-political landscape.
However, the pastor did not shy away from expressing his unease regarding the establishment of state police, cautioning that it could devolve into a tool for political manipulation. “Sure, state police might work, but let’s be real. It could easily become a personal army for corrupt officials!” he warned, a statement that raises eyebrows given the pastor's previous calls for increased military intervention.
Highlighting Nigeria's youthful demographic, Ashimolowo lamented the vulnerabilities young people face, particularly the allure of financial gain from criminal activities. “Sixty percent of Nigeria is under 30! If we don’t take action now, they will be tempted by the huge ransoms kidnappers are demanding. Let’s elevate the security level and instill a sense of national pride!” he cautioned dramatically.
He went on to tout Nigeria's intellectual potential, claiming that many across Africa look up to Nigerians as the ‘toughest, strongest, boldest’ people. “When I visit other African nations, they express admiration for Nigeria. They want to be like us!” he proclaimed, tapping into a narrative of national superiority that feels far removed from the everyday struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
Ashimolowo’s security proposal arrives amidst widespread criticism of the Federal Government's handling of persistent terror threats that have plagued the nation for over 15 years. His remarks highlight a growing frustration with the government’s inability to ensure safety and stability.
Adding fuel to the fire, Ashimolowo has raised alarms about what he calls the "targeted persecution of Christians" in Nigeria, recounting distressing tales from his own childhood in Zaria, Kaduna State. Is this a genuine plea for support, or simply a sensational tactic to rally his audience?
In a climate of fear and uncertainty, Pastor Ashimolowo’s call to action has sparked debate. Will the inclusion of NYSC members in security measures truly make a difference, or is this just another instance of performative leadership in a country craving real solutions?
