Youth Governance Dialogue held in Abeokuta
‘The Youth Governance Dialogue’, marking The United Nations International Youth Day with the Theme: Youth Building Peace, held at The Presidential Conference Hall, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta. #Youth4Peace #whofightepp #ActOn2250 #YouthDay
In joining the world to celebrate the International Youth Day, the Executive Director, Students without Borders International also known as the Integrity coach, Ambassador Nwodi Daniel Chinedu was at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State with some youths.
It was a great pleasure to be at the Youth Governance Dialogue on the International Youth Day 12th August, 2017, which was held at the Presidential Conference Hall, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Uwa Peace Saleh from TV Continental was the Moderator of the event.
Welcome address was made by the Chairperson, Youth Development Centre, Dr. Bisi Kolapo.
Chairman’s Opening Statement: Chief Bayo Ojo SAN CON, Former President, Nigeria Bar Association.
The lead speaker’s presentation: The role of our Youth in Contributing to the Peace and Stability of the Nation by Chief Godwin KANU Agabi, SAN, former Attorney General (Twice) and minister of Justice, Nigeria.
We had other great speakers and panelists, with the most interesting part being mentoring session with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, The Chief Promoter of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. Here are few snippets from his statement today.
“I started my politics from the top because of my track record, I was lucky to have recieved the baton of surrender from biafra. When I became the head of state, I never created a yoruba cabal, but handed over to civilian Interim president. I am grateful to Sanni Abacha for sending me to prison, it made me to see another aspect of life. I was called upon to run as a civilian to head this country because of my track record of being a detribalized Nigerian. I handed over to a civilian because I want a united Nigeria.
“My advice to the youths of today is that you have to push we the older generation politicians out because we are not ready to leave, and if you push and we refuse, join hands together as youths and carry us out.
“If four of the youths come forward now to lift me up, I can’t be as strong as you are, so if those you called old politicians refuse to move, suffocate them with your population they will back out.
“If 90 years old man can be president why not 30 years old man.”
The vote of thanks was taken by Damian Oyibo, Director, Youth Development Centre, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.
Below, are my take homes from the memorable event:
“The role of Youths in Building Peace is very essential because they’re change makers, but they must be respectful and eschew any form of violence.”
– Chief Bayo Ojo
“Whatever you are doing, PERSEVERE! If you can succeed in your career, there’s higher possibility that you will excel in Politics.”
– Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi, SAN
“You have to understand your Constitution. Know what you are and what you want. Space is coming, prepare yourself. Determine your motivation and be ready to serve.”
– Mrs. Serah Makka
“Understand your person, identify your purpose and go for it. If we think we cannot do it, we are right. If we also think we can do it, we are right. But, the future is ours to decide.”
– Comrade Chinonso Obasi
“Sincerely, I sympathize with the youths of today. In the 60s and 70s, there were little facilities and many opportunities, but now, we have many facilities and CLOSED opportunities!
“The beginning of your preparation is Education. You are anxious to travel abroad, but you desire to lead Nigeria. How much of Nigeria do you know?”
– Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
Leadership is not a position but a service. For a new and better Nigeria, Nigerian youths must learn to serve and not just seek after political positions.
Happy International Youth Day.
From:
Amb. Nwodi Daniel Chinedu
The Integrity Coach
Students without Borders international
