CJN URGES NIGERIAN GRADUATES TO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
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By ‘Balogun Ibrahim
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged Nigerian graduates to use their knowledge, skills and expertise to contribute to national development rather than abandon the country in search of opportunities abroad.
She also encouraged young graduates not to lose confidence in their ability to drive positive change in Nigeria despite the economic challenges, unemployment and uncertainties confronting the country.
The CJN gave the advice on Thursday while delivering the convocation lecture at Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, as part of activities marking the institution’s 10th and 11th combined convocation ceremonies.
Kekere-Ekun said the country needed graduates capable of independent thinking, constructive criticism, responsible innovation and collaboration to address its developmental challenges.
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She also emphasised the need for professionals who would resist the misuse of public resources, entrepreneurs committed to creating value and leaders who recognised that authority came with accountability.
Speaking at the event, she said she was particularly concerned about young graduates losing faith in their ability to make meaningful contributions to Nigeria.
“I am particularly concerned that young graduates should not lose faith in their capacity to make a difference in Nigeria.
“I recognise that the challenges facing our country are real. There are difficulties in the labour market, concerns about economic opportunity and circumstances that may make the future appear uncertain.
“I do not wish to minimise these concerns or offer simplistic assurances that determination alone will resolve every difficulty. Nevertheless, I believe that Nigeria’s future will be shaped, in significant measure, by the quality of the people who are prepared to take responsibility for it,” she said.
The CJN acknowledged that some graduates might wish to travel abroad to pursue postgraduate studies or seek better career opportunities but urged them to remain committed to Nigeria’s development.
She warned that the country could struggle to achieve meaningful progress if skilled and knowledgeable citizens chose to remain abroad and dedicate their talents solely to the development of other societies.
“Our country needs graduates who can think independently, question constructively, innovate responsibly and work collaboratively.
“Some of you may be planning to travel abroad, either immediately or in the near future, to pursue postgraduate studies or explore better opportunities. These are worthy aspirations.
“I urge you, equally, not to lose sight of the country you are leaving behind. Nigeria will not make the progress we desire if those equipped with knowledge, skills and opportunities choose to remain elsewhere and devote their talents exclusively to the development of other societies,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Prof. Philip Oguntunde, described the convocation lecture as a significant part of the institution’s academic activities.
He said the lecture provided an opportunity to move beyond celebrating academic achievements and engage graduates and other members of the university community on issues capable of broadening their perspectives and inspiring responsible contributions to society.
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