4 Aug 2026

Yesterday, I had the privilege of being the Guest Speaker at the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN 26), held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, under the theme: “Better Together: A Decade of BIMUN Advancing the United Nations Vision for Peace, Development, and Human Rights.” Before the students’ session, I had the pleasure of meeting with the University’s leadership, where we shared thoughts on the critical role of education in nation-building and sustainable development. I must commend the University’s management for their commitment to learning and excellence. I was truly impressed by the institution’s serene environment and the palpable culture of learning. Engaging with these brilliant young minds on governance, leadership, human rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, and nation-building was both inspiring and reassuring. I reminded them that we must strive to build a society where the child of a nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody, a nation founded on merit, justice, equal opportunity, and strong institutions. Such a society can only be built through competent, compassionate, and character-driven leadership. Africa has the world’s youngest population. If we are to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable future, our young people cannot afford to remain on the sidelines. They must take a keener interest in leadership, governance, and active citizenship, because the future they desire is one they must help shape. I remain confident that with the right leadership and an empowered youth population, we can build a nation that works for everyone. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO