[JAPA]Fashola to Youth: Real Leaders Stay to Build, Not to Flee

Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, has encouraged Nigerian youths to stay in the country and actively work towards making a positive impact, even amidst the ongoing economic difficulties.

Fashola’s remarks come at a time when there’s a noticeable trend among Nigerians, especially the youth, to seek better opportunities abroad—a phenomenon commonly referred to as “Japa.”

While speaking at the 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, on Saturday, Fashola emphasized the importance of persistence and resilience. He urged young Nigerians to focus on gaining positions of influence within Nigeria rather than looking to build careers outside the country. According to him, real leadership involves facing challenges head-on, not abandoning one’s community or nation in tough times.

“Why did prominent Nigerians like Mrs. Folorunso Alakija and Chief Tunde Afolabi remain in the country despite facing difficult circumstances?” he asked. “These are individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigeria and have chosen to stay and invest in the country’s future. They faced hardships in their younger years, just as the youth do now, but they took on the responsibility of leadership within their communities rather than leaving.”

Fashola also referenced Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, a well-known Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist who, despite enduring challenging periods, stayed and became a major force in Nigerian business and education. “Chief Ade-Ojo experienced tough times when he was a student at the University of Nigeria (UNN). Yet he chose to persevere. Had he left, Elizade University, which has become an institution of learning for many Nigerian youths, might not exist today.”

Drawing on these examples, Fashola argued that the current generation of Nigerian youth must embrace their role as leaders. He suggested that by remaining in the country and working through its challenges, they could drive meaningful change and build a stronger future for themselves and others. According to him, while the lure of greener pastures is understandable, true leaders are those who stay, face adversity, and make a difference.