By admin 
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has led hundreds of school boys on an educational tour of 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 featured visits to the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, and the Department of State Services office in Ojo. The initiative was designed to expose participants to career opportunities within the nation’s security architecture.
During the tour, the boys visited formations including Command Day Secondary School, Ikeja Cantonment; TA Lagbaja Cantonment; and NNS Beecroft, where they interacted with officers and gained first-hand insight into military operations and discipline.
Speaking during the visits, Dr. Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of discipline, patriotism and purposeful living, urging the boys to consider careers in the armed forces and other security services.
She said the exposure was aimed at inspiring interest in military and security professions while addressing misconceptions that may discourage young people from pursuing such paths.
“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 added that her office remains committed to raising well-rounded boys who will grow into responsible, disciplined and productive members of society. She also called for balanced advocacy for both boys and girls, noting that equal attention must be given to nurturing every child.
“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 said.
At the Ikeja Cantonment, Dr. Sanwo-Olu was represented by Mrs. Falilat Obasa, who reiterated the state government’s commitment to structured mentorship and exposure for young boys.
In his remarks, the Commander of the 9 Brigade, 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.
“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 at the Nigerian Air Force Logistics Command, Ikeja, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh of the Nigerian Air Force, commended the initiative, noting that early mentorship is critical in shaping responsible adults.
He encouraged the participants to remain committed to their aspirations, stressing that discipline and hard work are key to achieving greatness. Suleh also underscored the importance of balanced advocacy for both the boy and girl child to prevent long-term societal consequences.
Officials of the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Navy similarly lauded the programme, highlighting the role of early exposure to security institutions in fostering patriotism and national consciousness among youths.
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 focuses on mentorship, leadership training and career guidance aimed at building a generation of disciplined, confident and socially responsible young men.