Babatunde Fashola urges Nigerian youths to resist the temptation to leave the country amid economic challenges. At Elizade University’s conference, he emphasized the importance of staying in Nigeria to contribute to its growth, citing successful Nigerians who persevered despite hardships. Fashola stressed leadership through adversity.
In a recent speech at the combined 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Babatunde Fashola, former Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, urged Nigerian youths to resist the temptation of leaving the country for greener pastures abroad. While acknowledging the current economic hardships in Nigeria, Fashola emphasized that young people are responsible for staying and contributing to the country's growth.
He highlighted examples of successful Nigerians, such as business magnates Folorunso Alakija and Tunde Afolabi, who chose to stay and invest in the nation despite facing challenges in their youth. Fashola reminded the youths that leaders do not flee in difficult times, citing the example of Chief Ade-Ojo, whose decision to remain in Nigeria led to the establishment of Elizade University. He encouraged Nigerian youth to focus on making a difference by pushing through adversity and taking on leadership roles.
Reactions to Fashola’s statement have been mixed, with some supporting his call for resilience, while others expressed frustration. Social media users have challenged the minister, asking if his children were educated in Nigeria, suggesting that the elite may not fully understand the struggles of the common people. Many Nigerians expressed their weariness, citing the economic situation as a valid reason for leaving, with some even humorously mentioning they were already at the airport.
