The Youth Development Centre of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library has issued a stern warning to Nigerian youths: stop blaming leaders for the country’s problems and take active steps to lead the nation toward a better future.
The call came during the Presidential Youth Retreat 6.0, held on Tuesday at the library’s cinema hall in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where young participants from across Africa gathered to discuss leadership, governance, and continental development.
Guest speaker, General Martin Luther Agwai (CFR), emphasized that leadership positions are not handed over freely and that political power must be actively earned. “Democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It is time for Nigerian youths to challenge the status quo and stop waiting for change to happen,” he said.
General Agwai urged youths to reject political manipulation, bribery, and short-term gains, noting that many current leaders started as youths and remained in power for decades. He called on young Nigerians to unite across tribes and religions, pursue progressive goals peacefully, and address national challenges rather than fleeing abroad. For those already abroad, he advised gaining skills, technology knowledge, and governance experience before returning to contribute to Africa’s development.
The four-day retreat, themed “Africa and the Conflicts in Europe and the Middle East,” was initiated and led by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The programme offered participants rare one-on-one discussions on freeing Africa from modern forms of colonial dependency through visionary leadership and active youth involvement in governance.
Mrs. Bisi Kolapo, Chairperson of the Youth Development Centre, encouraged young Nigerians to look inward for opportunities rather than seeking to leave the country, highlighting examples of youths who have thrived despite difficult national circumstances. Mrs. Kehinde Ololara, Programme Director, added that retreat participants had been transformed by the knowledge gained and are now ready to influence leadership positively in their communities and countries.
The retreat featured debates and panel discussions with experts and veterans from across Africa, providing participants with practical insights on how young people can reshape politics and challenge perceptions of African inferiority compared to European powers.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described the event as a presidential mentorship platform, where experienced leaders share lessons from past mistakes with the younger generation to help build a stronger Africa. He encouraged participants to contribute ideas to enhance future editions of the programme.
Post a Comment