Babatunde Fashola, former Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, has urged Nigerian youths to remain in the country rather than seeking opportunities abroad amid economic challenges. Speaking at the 8th and 9th combined convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Fashola emphasized that young people must work to improve their circumstances and help stem the country’s mass exodus,Daily Trust reports.
The former two-term Lagos governor acknowledged the current difficulties in Nigeria, yet encouraged the youth to persevere and seek roles where they can influence decision-making. “Why did Mrs. Folorunso Alakija stay? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed greatly to Nigeria, remain? Even in their youth, times were tough. This hardship inspired Dr. Victor Olaiya’s 1960s song, Ilu le o, ko s’owo l’ode,” he said, stressing that leaders don’t abandon their responsibilities during hard times.
Michael Ade-Ojo, the university’s founder, expressed fulfillment in seeing his vision of producing world-class graduates come to fruition, even though the venture has not been financially rewarding. “I have intentionally sacrificed in this investment. It’s heartening to see the positive impact our graduates are making globally. My goal has always been to provide world-class education here in Nigeria, and while challenges remain, we have made remarkable progress,” he stated.
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Ade-Ojo urged the institution to prioritize research and entrepreneurship training to empower students for meaningful contributions to national development. Echoing this sentiment, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Ijadunola, affirmed Elizade University’s commitment to preparing graduates with the skills to address Nigeria’s economic and technological needs. “With our advancements in research and community engagement, Elizade University is set to strengthen its position in Nigerian higher education,” Ijadunola concluded.
