A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has called on Nigerians to always believe in the country and work together for its greatness.
His remarks came amid persistent concerns over insecurity, economic hardship, youth unemployment and the need to strengthen national cohesion, with stakeholders increasingly calling for stronger institutions and greater citizen participation in rebuilding the country.
Dogara’s appeal also placed emphasis on the responsibility of young Nigerians, particularly university graduates, to contribute their skills and expertise to national development rather than lose faith in the country.
Dogara, who expressed optimism about a better future for the country, urged citizens not to despair over the workability of the nation, saying everybody’s mission should be to make the country work for all.
The former lawmaker gave the charge at the 16th convocation ceremony of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, on Saturday.
His address, made available to our correspondent on Sunday, was titled, “Rethinking National Security for Sustainable Peace, Development and National Renewal.”
He said, “The story of Nigeria is a story of resilience. It has endured storms and risen from them. It is still being written, and today it is being written with more hope than despair. I therefore see a Nigeria where every child learns without fear; where every farmer works his land in peace; where every business can grow; where every community lives in harmony, and where freedom from fear is the inheritance of every citizen.
“With visionary leadership, strong institutions, patriotic citizens and the grace of Almighty God, Nigeria is not a dream deferred. It is a destination, and we are on the road. May Achievers University continue to rise, and to raise leaders who will change Nigeria and the world. May Nigeria become a country in which every citizen can live, work, travel, learn and prosper in safety. A secure Nigeria is possible. A peaceful Nigeria is necessary. A free and prosperous Nigeria must remain our common mission.”
Dogara, who is also the Chancellor of the university, admonished the graduates to use their talents and knowledge acquired at the institution for the development of the country.
“Nelson Mandela called education the most powerful weapon with which to change the world. The weapon is now in your hands, but a weapon, no matter how sophisticated, is useless until it is deployed. Nigeria needs your talent, your creativity, your innovation and patriotism to develop.
“Go out and be useful in the highest sense of the word. If you become a lawyer, serve justice. If you become a doctor, serve life. If you become an engineer, build what our country needs. If you become an entrepreneur, make jobs and make room for others. And if you are called to public service, put the nation before yourself, every time, without exception,” he advised.