Reinvent, reclaim Nigeria, youths challenged
21 February 2025 |
3:21 am
Nigerian youths have been charged to rise against oppression, reclaim their rights, and resist being manipulated.
Nigerian youths have been charged to rise against oppression, reclaim their rights, and resist being manipulated.
The Sawaba Initiative for Humanitarian Development gave the charge at an event to mark its first anniversary in Abuja.
The programme recognised distinguished Nigerians, who have contributed to justice, activism, and good governance.
Inspired by the legacy of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), the movement has long been associated with resistance against feudalism, colonial oppression, and corruption.
NEPU, founded in 1950 by Mallam Aminu Kano, stood for justice, equality, social empowerment, and values that continue to inspire modern-day activists.
The anniversary celebration brought together, prominent voices in human rights advocacy, politics, and grassroots activism, all of whom challenged young Nigerians to stand up for justice and accountability in the face of increasing political and economic hardship.
Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, set the tone for the event with a passionate speech on leadership, corruption, and activism.
He declared that he rarely accepts awards, but chose to honour this recognition due to the credibility of the Sawaba Initiative.
On leadership and integrity, Adeyanju stressed that true leadership is about service, not titles. He urged professionals in law, politics, journalism, and business to lead by example and uphold ethical values.
Veteran political activist and social justice advocate, Hajia Najatu Muhammad, called for action, urging young Nigerians to reject exploitation and manipulation.
She recounted the tragic murder of her husband, Bala Muhammad, describing it as a moment that solidified her resolve to fight against injustice.
The activist condemned corruption and religious manipulation, imploring Nigerians to unite rather than allow politicians to divide them along ethnic and religious lines.
She reaffirmed her commitment to justice, women’s empowerment, and the Sawaba movement’s ideals.
Senator Abdul Ningi, who chaired the occasion, urged youths to develop independent opinions, and refuse to be manipulated by political and religious divisions.
He referenced historical political struggles, recalling how strong voices “prevented President Olusegun Obasanjo from securing a third term in office.”
The lawmaker emphasised that no leader was greater than the nation and that those who attempt to exploit Nigeria must be held accountable.
He challenged young Nigerians to reject division and fight for a just society, warning that failure to do so would only benefit corrupt elites.
Veteran politician, Buba Galadima, reflected on Nigeria’s political evolution, declaring that true leadership is about impact, not titles.
“Many of the oppressive systems that NEPU dismantled -arbitrary justice, political oppression – are resurfacing in Nigeria today. We have come full cycle,” he lamented.
Galadima paid tribute to Mallam Aminu Kano, a political icon, who never held executive office, but remains a symbol of integrity.
Despite decades in politics, Galadima revealed that he has never held a ministerial or executive office, and still lives in the same two-bedroom house in Abuja for 35 years, rejecting corruption.
“Nigeria is at a crossroads. We, the old generation, can show you the way – but you must stand up and bring real change,” he challenged the youths.
Related
1 hour ago
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede has appealed for the repatriation
1 hour ago
Donald Trump on Friday said he doesn't consider it essential for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to be present at negotiations aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine. "I don't think he's very important to be in meetings," Trump said in an audio interview with Fox News. "He's been there for three years. He makes it…
1 hour ago
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) on Friday announced that it has shut crude feeds into the 16 inch Nun River-
1 hour ago
Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State on Friday swore in 15 new commissioners as members of the State Executive Council.
1 hour ago
The British Museum said Friday it had chosen French-Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh to redesign a third of the venue's gallery space -- including a section housing the disputed Parthenon Marbles. The museum, one of London's biggest tourist draws, received more than 60 entries after launching a competition last year for a remodelling of its Western…
1 hour ago
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says it successfully restored full bulk power supply to Katampe- Central Area, Abuja 132/33 Kilo
1 hour ago
Drug trafficker Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada has asked Mexico to seek his repatriation, faced with the possibility of being sentenced to death in the United States, President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed Friday. Zambada, who co-founded the Sinaloa Cartel with notorious drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, was arrested in the United States last July along with…
1 hour ago
The Western Marine Command, Nigeria Customs Service, has intercepted 53 sacks of substances suspected to be cannabis sativa,
×
Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox every day of the week. Stay informed with the Guardian’s leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology and sports.
0 Comments
We will review and take appropriate action.