"Babatunde Fashola Urges Nigerian Youth to Lead and Build at Home Instead of "Japa", Citing Resilient Leaders as Examples

Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola has called on young Nigerians to remain in the country and aspire to leadership roles despite Nigeria's economic challenges, rather than seeking opportunities abroad. Speaking at the eighth and ninth convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Fashola highlighted the importance of resilience and commitment to Nigeria.

Addressing the trend of "Japa"—a term that describes the increasing number of young Nigerians leaving for better opportunities—Fashola encouraged graduates to stay and make meaningful contributions at home. He referenced several successful Nigerians who chose to stay, asking, “Why did Mrs. Folorunso Alakija not run away? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed to Nigeria, not run away? Why are they still here?”

Using examples of other leaders, he added, “Leaders don’t run away even when things are tough.” He mentioned Chief Ade-Ojo, founder of Elizade University, as an example of someone who stayed despite facing difficult times at the University of Nigeria. “If he had left, there would be no Elizade University,” he said, urging graduates to embrace leadership responsibilities.

Elizade University’s founder, Michael Ade-Ojo, also expressed pride in the institution's mission of fulfilling Nigeria's educational needs by producing skilled graduates. He stated his satisfaction with the university's progress and reiterated his vision of providing quality education within Nigeria.