THE CABLE
Babatunde Fashola, former governor of Lagos, has asked Nigerian youths to remain in the country despite economic challenges.
In recent times, there has been a wave of migration by Nigerians who are seeking greener pastures abroad. “Japa” is a popular word used to describe migration in the country.
Speaking on Saturday at the combined 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo state, Fashola encouraged the youth to strive for positions of influence in the country instead of seeking opportunities abroad.
He said leaders don’t run away even when things are tough.
“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?” Fashola asked.
“Times were equally tough in their younger days. The youths have become leaders in the Nigerian household, and therefore, they must embrace that responsibility.
“Do leaders also run away when it is difficult? There were tough times when Chief Ade-Ojo was at the University of Nigeria (UNN), but Ade-Ojo didn’t leave. If he had left, there would be no Elizade University.”
