The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, Rinsola Abiola, has called on young Nigerians to be active citizens and to develop their leadership potential.

Abiola made this charge in a statement released by her office to commemorate the New Year. 

Citing an example with the pre-independence Nigerian Youth Movement, Ms. Abiola urged young Nigerians to be inspired by the antecedents of historic figures who made significant contributions to nation-building and development in their prime. 

Abiola stated, “90 years ago, the Nigerian Youth Movement was formed. It was a multi-ethnic organization established with the aim of promoting the political advancement of the country and the socio-economic welfare of Nigerian citizens.

“It was led by Professor Eyo Ita, who was then in his early 30’s, and it was a group of vibrant young people who greatly desired a Nigeria that worked for all. 

According to her, our history as a nation is replete with examples of great Nigerians who joined the fray as young men and women and left indelible prints in the sands of time.

“To be Nigerian is to have the seed of greatness within you and to be a young Nigerian especially is to have a legacy of greatness that you must live up to; it is therefore important for our youth to nurture their leadership skills and contribute meaningfully to nation building and the attainment of development goals.”

She also stressed the importance of unity and cohesion, and charged young people to learn about governance and promote democratic ideals. 

“Let us, as young people, resolve to be more actively involved in how our nation is governed, to learn about the structure of government and the roles and responsibilities of those officials who are serving in our states and in the federal government;

“…and to seek ways to positively influence the democratic process through constructive engagement. As we make resolutions on self-improvement and career growth, let us also resolve to be informed and active citizens who are committed to democratic ideals and nation-building,” she said.

 

She further urged young Nigerians to be good ambassadors of the country and to align with the call made by President Tinubu in his New Year broadcast, where he asked Nigerians to cast aside their differences and work together for national development.  

“Let us commit to doing what is right at all times and to being good ambassadors of not just our country but also of our generation. Let us be model citizens who foster unity and cohesion, who prioritise positive digital citizenship, and who think about how our actions impact others.

“Let us hearken to the call of our President to every Nigerian to play their part and work as one irrespective of our differences; the ties that bind us are stronger than the features that we do not share, and the ability to work together is essential to attaining the Nigeria of our dreams.”

As Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, Ms. Abiola is tasked with promoting civic education, leadership development, and other initiatives aimed at fostering mutual understanding between citizens and the government.