Former Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has called on Nigerian youths to resist the urge to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
Speaking on Saturday at the 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Fashola urged young people to face the challenges at home and work towards improving their nation.
The former Lagos State governor addressed the “Japa” trend – the slang term widely used to describe the exodus of Nigerians, especially young people, seeking better lives abroad.
He acknowledged that conditions in Nigeria are difficult but argued that perseverance and dedication are essential to building a better future.
Fashola advised Nigerian youths to stay engaged, stating, “Young people must find ways to push their way into places of decision-making. Running away is not the answer.”
Reflecting on the lives of notable Nigerians who overcame hardships, Fashola cited prominent figures who remained in the country during challenging times and contributed to its growth.
“Why did Mrs. Folorunso Alakija not run away? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed so much to Nigeria, not leave?” he questioned.
Fashola shared the struggles of previous generations, mentioning the popular 1960s song by Dr. Victor Olaiya, Ilu le o, ko s’owo l’ode – meaning, “The country is tough, there’s no money outside.”
“This song captured the harsh economic realities of those days, yet people stayed and fought for a better future,” he added.
Addressing the young graduates, Fashola emphasized that the youth have become leaders in their households, carrying a significant responsibility in shaping the country’s future.
“Do leaders run away when it is difficult?” he asked rhetorically. “Chief Michael Ade-Ojo faced tough times at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, but he didn’t leave. If he had left, there would be no Elizade University today.”
Michael Ade-Ojo, founder of Elizade University, also spoke at the event, sharing his fulfillment at seeing the university’s vision become a reality.
Ade-Ojo explained that his commitment to Elizade University has been a “sacrificial investment,” noting that it is not driven by financial gain but by a desire to provide world-class education in Nigeria.
“It gladdens my heart to see the seeds I sowed in humanity already bringing forth useful fruits,” he said. “My vision has always been to provide top-notch education in Nigeria, and I am pleased with how far we have come.”
Ade-Ojo expressed hope that the institution would continue to prioritize research and entrepreneurship to prepare students to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
“I urge the university to place greater emphasis on entrepreneurship training. It will equip our students to be more than job-seekers; it will enable them to be job creators,” he said.
The convocation ceremony was a celebration of academic achievement, with university leaders pledging to support students in overcoming Nigeria’s challenges.
Elizade University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Ijadunola, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing graduates equipped to tackle Nigeria’s economic and technological issues.
“With new developments, a growing research portfolio, and strong community ties, Elizade University is poised to continue its upward trajectory in Nigerian higher education,” Ijadunola noted.
Fashola’s appeal comes at a time when many Nigerians, frustrated by economic hardship and limited opportunities, are considering migration as a path to a better future.
While acknowledging the challenges, he encouraged Nigerian youths to remain hopeful and actively involved in nation-building.
