Nigeria, Oct. 13 -- As a boy in secondary school, like many restless teenagers, I dreamt of what I might become someday. My imagination traveled wide: doctor, lawyer, journalist, teacher but never once did I see myself as a soldier. It wasn't out of disrespect for the profession or ignorance of its prestige. No. The idea of being a soldier simply terrified me. Something deep within, perhaps an extra X chromosome in my emotional wiring, whispered that I was not built for that life of rigid duty, harsh command, and emotional detachment.

In school, many of my friends fantasized about wearing khaki. It was a dream woven with admiration for discipline, courage, and the honor of defending a nation. But I understood where the attraction came fr...