Instead of sitting on the sidelines, young Nigerians should be involved in shaping their country’s political landscape, according to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.
On Thursday, in Abuja, the governor delivered the charge at a Democracy Day lecture held in remembrance of June 12.
He claims that institutions are not enough to sustain a democracy; what is really necessary is the involvement of the people, who will cast ballots, enquire, write, and otherwise participate.
I think it’s crucial that young Nigerians recognise their place in this system. They can’t sit on the sidelines and expect to be considered. A right that was obtained in 1993 was passed on to you.
Duties are there for you to inherit as well. Embracing change requires initiative, not passive acceptance. “Political will is another issue,” he added.
No institution or constitution, no matter how flawless, can impose itself or withstand exploitation without principled actors, according to Uzodinma, who is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum.
To make sure that no deserving student could not attend college because of financial constraints, he went on to say that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund was increasing access to higher education.
If the government is serious about turning its policies into tangible, observable, and long-term improvements, then it will make these kinds of initiatives. Let us not dismiss June 12 as just another passing historical event as we remember it.
“Today, dedication is required for the path ahead. Transitions necessitate the establishment of institutions. Basic rules must be agreed upon by political actors. The governor emphasised the need of press independence.