Minister of Education urges youths to shape Nigeria’s future

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, on Tuesday in Lagos, described graduates as the heartbeat of Nigeria’s future, saying that the youth hold the power to shape the nation’s direction.

Alausa said this while delivering the convocation lecture at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo campus, as part of the university’s 28th convocation ceremony.

It was reported that the lecture was its theme, “Patriotism, citizenship, and national ownership: The imperative of collective responsibility for Nigeria’s future.”

Highlighting the demographic strength of Nigeria, Alausa noted that with over 70 per cent of the population under the age of 30, young people wielded immense potential to influence the country’s trajectory.

“However, this influence comes with responsibility,” he said.

“Harness your skills to drive economic growth and social change.

“Engage in policy-making, governance, and leadership. Equip yourselves with global competencies while remaining committed to local development.

“It is time to reverse the brain drain by creating opportunities that inspire young Nigerians to stay, contribute, and lead within their homeland.”

Addressing the lecture’s theme, Alausa clarified that patriotism was often misunderstood as blind loyalty or emotional attachment to national symbols.

He said, “True patriotism transcends symbolism. It is an active and conscious commitment to national development.

“In today’s Nigeria, patriotism must go beyond waving the flag or singing the anthem.

“It must reflect integrity, civic responsibility, and a collective vision for progress and unity,” he added.

According to the minister, LASU graduates should reflect deeply on the true meaning of patriotism, citizenship, and national ownership.

“Your degree is not just a personal achievement. it is a tool for societal transformation,” he said.

“As you leave the halls of LASU and step into the world, remember that you are not merely individuals pursuing personal success; you are bearers of national hope and progress.

“The future of Nigeria depends on educated, enlightened, and responsible citizens like you.”

Alausa encouraged the graduates to rise to the occasion, embrace responsibility with courage, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.

“Whether as professionals, entrepreneurs, or public servants, let your actions reflect the values of patriotism, integrity, and excellence,” he added.

Also speaking at the convocation lecture, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Abdullahi Ganduje, commended LASU for its strides in academic and infrastructural development.

“There is no gainsaying that education remains the ultimate solution to the myriad of challenges facing humanity,” Ganduje said.

“In today’s global race, there is no room for ignorance. No investment is too much when it comes to education.”

He praised President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its commitment to expanding educational opportunities.

He praised the establishment of more tertiary institutions, improved infrastructure, and efforts toward meeting global standards.

Ganduje emphasised that the theme of the convocation lecture was particularly relevant in the current phase of Nigeria’s development.

“This is a time when we must appreciate the spirit of patriotism and work collectively for national progress,” he said.

“We must renew our national pride, embrace our diversity as a source of strength, and strive to unite rather than divide.

“I firmly believe the Nigerian project is still achievable, provided we approach our responsibilities with sincerity and honesty.

“With renewed patriotism and a shared sense of belonging, from the north to the south and east to west, Nigeria shall rise again,” he added.

The Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, also shared her views on patriotism, urging Nigerians to actively contribute to peace and nation-building.

“Nigeria is not just a geographical entity, it is our shared home, built on the sacrifices of our past heroes and sustained by our collective efforts,” she said.

“True patriotism, citizenship, and collective ownership are not just about words or holding a green passport.

“They are about how we contribute to the peace, progress, and prosperity of our nation.”

According to her, Nigeria’s future does not rest with a select few, but in the hearts and hands of every citizen, especially the youth.

“The older generation, despite its imperfections, has kept the fabric of this nation intact, preserving the dreams and hopes of generations past.

“Now, the torch is being passed to the youth in their 40s, 30s, and 20s—the emerging leaders of Nigeria.

“You are the ones who must rise to the occasion, to safeguard this nation in the face of threats to its unity, peace, and progress,” she said.