May 20, 2024

The Speaker, Rt Hon. (Amb.) Adeola Aderibigbe was invited to the prestigious University of Lagos, Lagos, to speak to the students of Political Science on the topic Tracing the Trajectory of Nigeria’s Development; The Role of Students in Creating the Ideal State, during her departmental week and Inaugural Ceremony of National Association of Political Science Students (NAPPS).

The Speaker, Rt Hon. (Amb.) Adeola Aderibigbe Deliver his speech ;

Tracing the Trajectory of Nigeria’s Development: The Role of Students in Creating the Ideal State

Esteemed Dean and HOD, distinguished faculty, brilliant students, and my fellow Nigerians.

It is a great honour to stand before you today at the prestigious University of Lagos to discuss a topic that holds immense significance for the future of our nation: “Tracing the Trajectory of Nigeria’s Development; The Role of Students in Creating the Ideal State.”

As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the excitement and optimism that filled the air when Nigeria gained independence in 1960. Back then, the vision for Nigeria was grand and inspiring. Our founding fathers dreamed of a nation that would become a beacon of hope and prosperity in Africa, a land where justice and equity would prevail, and where every citizen would have the opportunity to thrive. But, like a student who once aimed for straight A’s and now finds himself negotiating with the lecturer for a passing grade, we must acknowledge that we have fallen short of these lofty ideals.

Don’t get me wrong, Nigeria has its moments. We’ve got a booming film industry, Nollywood churning out classics and blockbusters faster than your Nigerian uncle can “get back to you” after you send him your CV.

Our music scene is hotter than Lagos at noon, with Afrobeats taking over the world one dance step at a time.(from Wizkid FC, Plutomenians to 30BG)

But, beneath the glitz and the rhythm, there are some underlying issues that need fixing.

Corruption? More present than an overstayed welcome at a relative’s house.

Infrastructure? In some areas, it’s as reliable as NEPA (remember NEPA? Now that’s a throwback!).

Education? Well, Sometimes it feels like we’re using textbooks older than our parents.

But here’s the good news guys:

Historically, students have been at the forefront of major movements that shaped Nigeria’s trajectory. The protests against colonial rule, the push for democracy in the 1990s, and more recently, the End SARS movement, all highlight the power of student activism in driving societal change.

When you think back to the students who fought colonialism and Military rule – you would agree that they were the original definition of “No gree for anybody,” refusing to accept anything less than freedom.

And that fighting spirit is exactly what we need today!

Here’s how you, the future leaders, can rewrite Nigeria’s story:

* Become active learners: Don’t just consume information; analyze it, question it, and use it to develop innovative solutions. Nigeria’s economic future depends on innovation and entrepreneurship. Students, especially those in STEM fields, have a critical role in driving technological advancements and creating job opportunities. Utilize resources, such as incubators and research grants, to develop start-ups and projects that can transform industries. Collaboration with institutions and private sector partners can further amplify these efforts. Let’s not forget that some of the world’s biggest tech companies started in university dorm rooms. Who knows? The next big thing might just come from a UNILAG student.

* Embrace critical thinking: Develop a healthy scepticism towards authority and the status quo. Challenge assumptions and propose alternative approaches to issues plaguing our nation.

* Promote Civic Responsibility: Needless to say, if you are above 18, you should have a voter’s card which you are obligated to use but then again it is important to note that Civic responsibility extends beyond voting. It involves active participation in community development and governance. Students can volunteer in local communities, join advocacy groups, and contribute to grassroots initiatives that address local needs. By fostering a culture of service, we can bridge gaps in education, healthcare, and social services, thereby building a more inclusive society. I remember a time when students from this very institution mobilized to clean up a local market. It might have seemed like a small effort, but it sparked a larger community movement towards better waste management practices. Imagine the ripple effect if more of us engaged in such civic duties regularly.

* Harness the power of technology: In today’s digital age, social media and other online platforms are powerful tools for advocacy and change. Use these platforms responsibly to raise awareness about critical issues, mobilize support for causes, and hold public officials accountable. Digital activism can transcend geographical barriers, creating a united front among students nationwide. Just think about how a single tweet can spark a nationwide movement. Social media is not just for memes and selfies; it’s a powerful tool for change. Don’t just consume content, Create content that puts your voice out there.

* Form strong alliances: One of the most effective ways to amplify our impact is through collaboration. Join youth organizations like the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN). These platforms provide a collective voice for young people, enabling us to influence policy and decision-making processes. Through joint efforts, we can tackle national issues more effectively and ensure that the youth perspective is included in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Conclusion:

The trajectory of Nigeria’s development is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of its youth. As students, you possess the energy, creativity, and passion needed to create the ideal state. By becoming informed citizens, promoting civic responsibility, innovating for economic development, championing social justice, building networks, and harnessing digital media, we can transform Nigeria into a nation that reflects our collective aspirations.

Let us embrace this challenge with determination and optimism. Together, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria.

Thank you.