Babatunde Fashola, former Minister of Power, Works and Housing, has issued a passionate appeal to Nigerian youths to reconsider the impulse to leave the country in search of greener pastures abroad.
In light of the country’s economic challenges, he urged young Nigerians to stay back and contribute to creating a better Nigeria.
Speaking on Saturday at the combined 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Fashola delivered a powerful message to the graduating students, emphasizing the role they could play in shaping a stronger and more resilient nation.
Fashola, who previously served as a two-term governor of Lagos State, acknowledged the tough times Nigerians are currently facing.
However, he cautioned against the growing trend of mass migration and encouraged young people to build a future for themselves within their home country.
"Yes, things are tough in Nigeria," he admitted.
"But the answer is not to run away. The answer lies in each of us stepping forward to make a difference and building a future that works for everyone."
He urged young Nigerians to persist in their efforts and seek pathways into positions of decision-making within the country.
Fashola stressed the need for determined, home-grown solutions, arguing that youth must seize the opportunity to influence Nigeria's progress from within.
Drawing from the lives of prominent Nigerians who remained despite past hardships, Fashola underscored the importance of resilience and commitment to one's country.
"Why did Mrs. Folorunso Alakija not run away? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed so much to Nigeria, not leave? Why are they still here?" he asked, posing these questions to underline the value of staying.
He reminded his audience that each of these leaders endured difficult times and could have chosen to leave Nigeria when the going got tough.
Instead, they stayed back, laying the foundations for their achievements and for Nigeria’s advancement as a whole.
Reflecting on the past, Fashola pointed to the era of Dr. Victor Olaiya, the iconic Nigerian musician whose song “Ilu le o, ko s’owo l’ode” (meaning "Times are tough, there is no money outside") captured the struggles of his generation in the 1960s.
Fashola drew a parallel between those times and the present day, highlighting the cyclical nature of challenges in Nigeria’s history.
"The youths have become leaders in the Nigerian household, and therefore, they must embrace that responsibility," he continued, urging the younger generation to step up in these difficult times instead of leaving.
He added that leadership involves remaining steadfast and finding solutions during challenging periods rather than fleeing from them.
To drive his point home, Fashola shared the story of Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, the founder of Elizade University and a notable business figure in Nigeria’s auto industry.
During his time at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Ade-Ojo also faced challenging circumstances.
Yet, he chose to persevere in Nigeria and ultimately contributed to its growth.
"If Chief Ade-Ojo had left, there would be no Elizade University today," Fashola noted, emphasizing how the enduring efforts of individuals like Ade-Ojo have led to long-term positive impacts on Nigeria’s education and economy.
Fashola's message to Nigerian youth resonates at a time when emigration has become increasingly prevalent among the country's younger population.
In recent years, thousands of Nigerians have sought opportunities abroad, hoping to escape economic hardship and improve their quality of life.
This wave of migration, often referred to as the “japa” trend, has raised concerns about brain drain and its impact on Nigeria’s long-term development.
Fashola cautioned that abandoning the country en masse will only make it more challenging to achieve meaningful change.
He encouraged Nigerian youths to instead take ownership of the country's future, actively engaging in its socio-political and economic development.
Through his speech, Fashola aimed to inspire young Nigerians to recognize the power they hold to effect change within their homeland.
According to him, the development and prosperity of Nigeria depend significantly on the drive and dedication of its youth.
As future leaders, Nigerian youths are positioned to shape policies, innovate industries, and build a sustainable future that benefits all citizens.
Fashola’s call to action is a reminder that the strength of a nation lies in its people’s willingness to confront challenges head-on.
By staying and contributing to Nigeria’s growth, Fashola believes that the youth can break the cycle of hardship and build a resilient society where future generations won’t feel compelled to leave in search of a better life.
Ultimately, Fashola’s message is one of hope and responsibility.
He asked Nigerian youth to see themselves as key drivers of transformation, capable of lifting the nation above its current difficulties and paving the way for a brighter future.
In his words, "Nigeria needs your commitment, your energy, and your ideas.
Together, let’s build the Nigeria we dream of, right here."
Fashola’s speech at Elizade University may resonate far beyond the campus, serving as an inspiring call for young Nigerians to stay, persevere, and become the change-makers their country so desperately needs.
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