In a bid to enhance collaboration between the Kwara State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ambassador Ndanusa Usman Shehu, on Saturday morning participated in a 10-kilometer route march with personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
The exercise, organized by the Nigerian Air Force, was aimed at promoting physical fitness, combat readiness, discipline, and esprit de corps among its personnel.
The Commissioner’s participation highlighted Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to fostering youth development and strengthening civil-military collaboration.
Speaking after the march, Ambassador Ndanusa commended the NAF for their discipline and dedication to national service. He noted that his involvement in the exercise was symbolic of the Kwara State government’s efforts to inspire young people through active engagement in nation-building activities.
“This event goes beyond physical exercise. It sends a message to our youths about the importance of discipline, resilience, and patriotism.
“The route march is part of broader initiatives by the Kwara State Ministry of Youth Development to partner with security agencies in creating opportunities for youth empowerment and participation in security-related programmes,” the Commissioner submitted.
He emphasized that the State government will continue to champion initiatives that promote youth engagement, recognizing their role as critical stakeholders in the State’s socio-economic progress.
Speaking at the event, the Commander 341 Communication Information Systems Group, Wing Commander Uchenna Joseph Obieke, highlighted that the Nigerian Air Force is committed to strengthening relationships with communities and the youths of the State.
According to him “This march reminds us that fitness and discipline are not exclusive to the armed forces. They are values we must all embrace as citizens and leaders, through physical training and mental fortitude, we prepare not only for defense but for nation-building,” he noted.
He stressed that the youths are the cornerstone of the national future, and can be inspired and guided through engagements such as the route march to help integrate them into the broader vision of peace, unity and national development.
Present at the route march aside the Nigerian Air Force, were the Officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Special Squad of Man ‘O’ War, members of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), National Association of Uniformed Voluntary Organization, and members of the press.
