AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Nigerian youths have been urged to prioritize capacity building to assume leadership roles and contribute to the country’s quest for good governance and economic growth.
This call was made on Friday at the official launch of Rising Together: Essays on the Nigerian Struggle and Our Path to Growth, a book by public analyst Ajibola Oladiipo. Panelists at the event discussed the challenges confronting Nigeria and the role of young people in addressing them.
Ajibola Oladiipo, in his address, expressed concern about the growing sense of disillusionment among Nigerians. “For many years in school, I was deeply passionate about Nigeria. It pains me that so many people see the country as a death trap and want to leave. Nigeria is our home, and we can make it better,” he said.
Oladiipo explained that the essence of his book was to inspire hope and patriotism. “We can build the Nigeria we desire by contributing our quota. When individual efforts come together, the impact will be significant. I firmly believe Nigeria can achieve greatness in my lifetime,” he added.
He also highlighted the role of community action in addressing societal problems. “The challenges we face often stem from the home. While in school, I organized outreach programs for street kids. We can’t just tie our hands and lament. I’m currently working with a team to address substance abuse in Northwestern Nigeria, where not only youths but also housewives, feeling lonely and isolated, turn to drugs. We need to increase the number of good people making positive changes,” he said.
About Rising Together
Oladiipo’s 238-page book, which features a green cover, is divided into five parts and explores various aspects of Nigeria’s development, including agriculture, education, health, and technology. The book begins with an introduction and concludes with a “Call to Action,” urging Nigerians to reflect on their history and take responsibility for building a better nation.
The first section examines Nigeria’s historical journey and how it shaped the present. The second part identifies issues like corruption and poor governance, while the third discusses leadership and economic growth. The fourth and fifth sections delve into various sectors of the economy, culture, and security.
In the concluding section, Oladiipo challenges Nigerians to be active participants in nation-building. Referencing Joseph de Maistre’s quote, “Every country has the government it deserves,” and Thurgood Marshall’s words, “Speak out against wrongs, because this is your country,” he emphasizes the role of citizens in shaping democracy.
Call for Active Citizenship
At the launch, Oladiipo questioned the audience’s engagement with civic responsibilities. “How many of you voted in the last election? Do you see voting as a civic duty? The question should not be what Nigeria can do for you, but what you can do for Nigeria,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to adopt responsible practices, noting, “Our nation will improve when we improve. The strength of a country lies in the active participation of its citizens.”
Panelists’ Perspectives
Panelists also underscored the need for patriotism and collaboration. Adetunji Lam-Adesina emphasized the importance of motivation and hope, saying, “Though Nigeria has failed many of us, patriotism can drive change. A word of hope can uplift, just as a doctor’s assurance can comfort a patient. Initiatives like this book inspire confidence in Nigeria’s future.”
Joseph Adetuberu called for a collective commitment to national progress, while Dr. Bayo Kolade reflected on historical figures and the enduring impact of their actions. He stressed the importance of remembering history to inform future decisions.
The panelists also advised young people to engage the older generation through dialogue instead of resorting to violent demonstrations, emphasizing the need to bridge the generational gap in values.
With the launch of Rising Together, Oladiipo and the panelists aim to ignite a sense of responsibility and hope among Nigerians, particularly the youth, to chart a path toward national development.
