A former governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, has urged Nigerian youths to remain in the country despite the challenging economic climate and the growing trend of migration.
Fashola reportedly shared his thoughts on Saturday, during his address at the 8th and 9th combined convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State.
He encouraged young people to focus on achieving positions of influence within Nigeria rather than seeking opportunities overseas, emphasizing that true leaders do not abandon their country, even in difficult times.
“Why did Mrs. Folorunso Alakija stay? Why didn’t Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has made significant contributions to Nigeria, leave? Why are they still here?” Fashola asked, using examples of successful Nigerians who have remained in the country despite past hardships.
He pointed out that these individuals, like Chief Ade-Ojo—founder of Elizade University—had faced difficult times in their youth but chose to stay and invest in the nation. “If Chief Ade-Ojo had left Nigeria, Elizade University wouldn’t exist today,” Fashola noted.
Tthe founder of Elizade University, Michael Ade-Ojo, also expressed his pride in the institution’s role in developing world-class graduates and contributing to the nation’s education system.
He encouraged the university to place greater emphasis on research and entrepreneurship training, emphasizing that these areas would better equip students to contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development.