The Honourable Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Ekiti State, has called on Nigerian youths to channel their restlessness into positive action as the nation undergoes significant transition. Speaking as the guest speaker at the 2025 Convocation Lecture of McPherson University, Seriki-Sotayo, Ogun State, the Commissioner emphasized that young people’s aspirations must be met with practical solutions in governance, economy, and technology to ensure a stable and prosperous future.
Delivering a lecture titled “A Nation in Transition: Managing the Yearnings of Its Restless Youth,” Prof. Mobolaji Ebenezer Aluko, former Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Otuoke, showed the various transitions Nigeria has experienced since gaining independence in 1960. He noted that each shift, whether political, economic, or social has shaped the current realities of young Nigerians. “Sixty-five years after independence, our nation is once again at a crossroads, and the youth are yearning for permanent, positive change,” he said.
Prof. Aluko provided historical context to Nigeria’s changing landscape, explaining how different generations have been shaped by past administrations. He highlighted that the current generation of Nigerian youth, many of whom were born during military rule or the early years of democracy, have experienced broken promises and economic instability, leading to their restlessness. However, he cautioned against seeing the youth’s agitation as resentment but rather as an opportunity to create a more responsive and inclusive society.
Addressing political challenges, Prof. Aluko stated that young people crave freedom, fairness, and accountability. He called for reforms that ensure credible elections, transparency in governance, and a leadership style that prioritizes the concerns of the youth. “If we are to manage the yearnings of our youths, all forms of political suppression must be avoided, and politicians must be more honest and accountable,” he urged.
The convocation lecturer also pointed to socio-economic challenges as a major source of anxiety for young people, noting that unemployment and lack of economic opportunities have left many graduates uncertain about their future. He advocated for policies that promote skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and education funding through student loans, scholarships, and work study programs. “A youth without a skill and a job is a slave to somebody, a political thug for hire, and the devil’s idle hand to be put to criminal work,” he warned.
Prof. Aluko also explored the impact of technology on today’s youth, describing them as the most digitally engaged generation in history. While acknowledging the benefits of technological advancements, he warned against the dangers of excessive social media consumption, online fraud, and misinformation. He emphasized the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence and digital tools for innovation, creativity, and solving local problems. “Technology should be a tool for empowerment, not a distraction or a weapon for criminality,” he added.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Aluko urged the graduating students to see themselves as the nation’s problem-solvers rather than victims of government shortcomings. He encouraged them to find role models, remain ethical in their dealings, and continue to believe in Nigeria’s potential. Quoting Philippians 4:6, he reminded them not to be anxious about the future but to stay prayerful and committed to their goals.
The convocation lecture was a significant highlight of McPherson University’s combined 8th and 9th Convocation Ceremonies, bringing together students, college members, and dignitaries to reflect on the state of the nation and the role of young people in shaping its future. The Commissioner and other speakers commended the university for its commitment to academic excellence and moral integrity, urging the graduates to uphold these values in their post-university journey.
As the convocation celebrations concluded, the message was clear: Nigeria’s youth must not allow restlessness to turn into despair but should embrace the country’s transition as a period of opportunity, resilience, and meaningful contribution to national development.
