The Ekiti State Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Mobolaji Aluko, has tasked the 281 graduates of McPherson University, Ajebo, Ogun State not to embrace the japa syndrome but rather see themselves as solutions to the nation’s problem.
Aluko who was the guest lecturer at the 8th and 9th combined convocation of the university held at the institution’s auditorium on Friday, said Nigerian youths are faced with hopelessness occasioned by failure in leadership.
He stressed that the hopelessness has plunged the youth into a state of restlessness because the nation since independence, had yet to transition to its full potential.
Speaking on the topic, “A nation in transition: Managing the yearnings of its restless youths”, Aluko said, “I posit that any present restlessness of our youths is conditioned by what they have faced and continue to face politically, socially, technologically and economically through all of those administrations until the present one, and any dashed or renewed hopes ever since.
“Restlessness is occasioned by anxieties about their present and in particular future situation, and the fear that life will pass them by without having fulfilled their life’s ambitions.
“I am sure that many of the graduating students now are anxious about what this Nigeria holds for them in future, and that after Youth Service, they do not quite know whether “japa-ing” is not in their fate.”
He encouraged them not to be discouraged by the many challenges facing the country but to see themselves as the solution to the problems.
“I urge you to see yourselves as the nation’s problem solvers despite government misadventures; find heroes and sheroes from within and without Nigeria that you can emulate, and respect your elders – within certain ethical limits.”
The former Vice-Chancellor of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, in a follow-up interview with our correspondent, enjoined the youth not to embrace japa syndrome while tasking the government on the need to provide employment opportunities for the youths.
“People should not do it. They should be patient. But we should work hard to employ as many of our youths as possible because there is a need for their skills,” Aluko said.
Also speaking, the university Vice-Chancellor, Francis Igbasan, challenged the graduates to be prepared for the demands that await them.
He urged them to be the embodiment of excellence stressing that, “as proud alumni of McPherson University, distinguish yourselves through integrity, diligence and purpose.
Uphold the values instilled in you and let them guide all your endeavours. Always remember the vision of this great institution: “Building a people of excellence and integrity for service.”
He added that the graduates had been equipped with not just academic skills but they were instilled with entrepreneurial skills that could make them job creators.
Igbasan concluded that the university would continue to invest in the human capacity development of its workforce.
Recalling the purpose of establishing the university, the Visitor and General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Sam Aboyeji, stressed that the church recognised the importance of an educated citizenry to society’s growth.
“I wish to state that the Foursquare in Nigeria established McPherson to complement government efforts at providing education to the citizens. We believe that a well-educated citizenry is a sine qua non for society’s growth and development.
“I want to remind you that as individuals and alumni of this faith-based institution, McPherson University, we expect you to be worthy ambassadors of this university and Jesus Christ.”
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor of the university, Babatunde Idowu, urged the students to be prepared for the challenges after graduation.
“Life beyond university will present its own set of challenges and opportunities. But remember this: you are champions. Champions are not defined by the absence of obstacles but by their ability to rise above them.
“As you navigate this new phase, remember that success is not solely measured by personal achievements but by the positive impact you have on others. Strive to be a force for good in your community, workplaces and beyond. Let your actions reflect the values and education you receive at McPherson University,” Idowu said.
The highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates in different categories.