Vice President Kashim Shettima has delivered a powerful message to Nigerian graduates, urging them to channel their potential into building a brighter future for the nation rather than seeking opportunities abroad. The Vice President emphasized this during a visit from the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who led the graduating class of the second cohort of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) to meet him at the State House, Abuja.
In his address, Vice President Shettima encouraged the graduates to reject disillusionment and embrace their potential within Nigeria. He expressed a strong belief that among them are future Presidents, Vice Presidents, Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, governors, as well as future drivers and captains of industry. Shettima emphasized the significance of national pride and resilience, stating, “Let no one deceive you that the grass is greener at the other end. Certainly, we can make it green on our home turf.”
Acknowledging the current challenges facing the country, the Vice President conveyed a resolute vision for overcoming these difficulties. He stated, “Our country is going through some difficulties and challenges, but we are going to surmount it. We are going to cross the Rubicon. We are going to cross the Red Sea and take you to the land of opportunities and blessings.”
Vice President Shettima specifically praised the graduates for their digital prowess and urged them to utilize their skills for national development. He encouraged them to stay in Nigeria, emphasizing that the future belongs to them. Shettima challenged their perception of leadership, emphasizing that true leadership lies in intellectual agility and the ability to provide robust solutions to the nation’s problems.
He also called on the graduates to be active participants in shaping Nigeria’s destiny, noting that their digital skills, combined with a sense of purpose and national pride, have the potential to transform the nation’s landscape. The Vice President assured them that with time, the country would bounce back and encouraged them to say no to naysayers and prophets of doom.
In response, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the founder of the LMI program, commended the young men and women in the cohort, highlighting their unique potential. He expressed optimism about the impact they would make, emphasizing the need for mentorship and the changing dynamics for the younger generation.
The Vice President’s empowering message and encouragement to embrace national pride and resilience resonate with the ongoing efforts to inspire the youth to contribute actively to the development of Nigeria.