LAGOS FIRST LADY TAKES SCHOOL BOYS ON LEARNING TOUR TO MILITARY, SECURITY AGENCIES. (PHOTO). #PRESS RELEASE.

 LAGOS FIRST LADY TAKES SCHOOL BOYS ON LEARNING TOUR TO MILITARY, SECURITY AGENCIES

… As Four-Day LBCI 2026 Residential Camp Begins

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has led hundreds of school boys on an educational tour to key military and security formations across the state, as part of activities marking the commencement of the 2026 Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI) Residential Camp.

The tour, which featured visits to the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Maryland Ikeja, Nigerian Navy, Apapa, Nigerian Air Force, Ikeja and the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Ojo, was designed to expose participants to career opportunities within the nation’s security architecture.

Speaking during the tour, Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need for young boys to cultivate discipline, patriotism, and a sense of purpose, urging them to consider careers in the armed forces and other security services.

According to her, the initiative was carefully curated to bridge the gap in awareness and inspire interest in military and security professions among young boys in Lagos State.

“This exposure is not just about sightseeing; it is about shaping your future. At this critical stage of your lives, you must begin to think intentionally about your career paths. The military and other security services offer honourable and rewarding opportunities to serve your country”, she said.

The First Lady noted that declining interest in military careers among youths can be attributed to limited exposure and misconceptions about the profession, adding that the LBCI seeks to correct such narratives through structured engagement and mentorship. She reiterated the commitment of her office to raising well-rounded boys who will grow into responsible, disciplined, and productive members of society.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu also used the opportunity to advocate for greater support for the boy child, stressing the importance of balancing ongoing advocacy efforts for both boys and girls.

“We must not neglect the boy child. Every child deserves equal opportunity, guidance, and mentorship to succeed. Through this initiative, we are nurturing future leaders and helping them realise their full potential”, she added.

At the Ikeja Cantonment, the First Lady was represented by Mrs. Falilat Obasa, who reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to nurturing responsible young boys through structured mentorship and exposure.

In his remarks, the Commander, 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Ayokunle Owolabi, described the initiative as a strategic platform for shaping the mindset of young boys and steering them away from negative influences.

He emphasised that discipline remains the bedrock of success in both military and civilian life, urging the participants to remain focused and determined.

“The Nigerian Army is not just about wearing the uniform; it is about building character and leadership. Your background does not define your future - your determination does. Nigeria is counting on you”, he said.

Also speaking during the visit to the Nigerian Air Force Logistics Command, Ikeja, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, commended the initiative, noting that early mentorship is critical in shaping responsible adults.

He encouraged the boys to dream big and remain committed to their aspirations. “You must dare to dream and be willing to take the necessary steps to achieve your goals. With discipline and hard work, you can attain greatness. Programmes like this are essential in guiding young minds on the right path”, he said.

Suleh further stressed the need for balanced advocacy for both the boy and girl child, noting that neglecting either group could have long-term societal consequences.

Officials of the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Navy also commended the initiative, highlighting the importance of early exposure to security institutions in fostering patriotism and national consciousness among youths.

They encouraged the participants to uphold values such as integrity, courage, and service to the nation.

The 2026 LBCI Residential Camp, now in its fourth edition, has drawn over 500 boys from public and private schools, as well as correctional and underserved communities across Lagos State.

The four-day programme is designed to provide mentorship, leadership training, and career guidance, with a focus on building a generation of disciplined, confident, and socially responsible young men.

More photos below.