The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa has said that for Nigeria to strive, it is a must to strengthen the relationship between academia, industry, and government.
He also added that research, innovation, and policy development must align to drive sustainable growth and national development.
He stated this while delivering the 2025 Convocation Lecture of Lagos State University, Ojo, titled: ‘Patriotism, Citizenship, and National Ownership: The Imperative of Collective Responsibility for Nigeria’s Future, recently.
According to him, universities are not merely institutions of learning; they are incubators for national transformation. “Education shapes responsible citizens by fostering critical thinking, ethical values, and a sense of duty to society.
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“Lagos State University, as a leading institution of higher learning, has a pivotal role to play in producing graduates who are not just job seekers but nation builders. This responsibility goes beyond academic excellence. It demands that we cultivate leadership, innovation, and a passion for social justice in every graduate.”
He added that aligned with this vision, the Ministry of Education has launched transformative policies under his leadership to ensure that education serves as a true catalyst for national growth and ownership through Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).
This initiative according to him is built on three foundational pillars and three cross cutting enablers. “The Three Pillars are Equitable Access to Basic Education, Inclusive Quality Education and Learning Outcomes and Strengthened Governance and Management. While the three Cross Cutting Enablers are Data and Digitalization, Cross Sectoral Collaborations and Enhanced Partnerships.
“These reforms aim to transform Nigeria’s educational landscape and position our graduates for global competitiveness and therefore moving our Country from a Resourced Based to a Knowledge Based Economy,” he said.
Pointing youth as architects of Nigeria’s future, the Minister said Nigeria graduates, are the heartbeat of Nigeria’s future. With over 70% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30, the youth hold unprecedented power to influence the nation’s direction.
He however said this influence comes with responsibility which include innovation and entrepreneurship; civic engagement and global competitiveness by equipping themselves with global skills while staying committed to local development.
“It is time to reverse the tide of brain drain by creating opportunities that inspire young Nigerians to stay, contribute, and lead within their homeland.”
Talking on unity, inclusivity, and collective responsibility, Dr. Alausa said Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, yet it has also been a source of division, therefore building a united and inclusive nation requires overcoming ethnic, religious, and social barriers. “We must foster national unity by Promoting dialogue, tolerance, and respect across all divides.
“Inclusive Development by ensuring equitable access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all Nigerians and collective responsibility by recognizing that nation-building is not the duty of a select few but a shared obligation of every citizen.”
Congratulating the graduating students, the minister urged them to reflect on their responsibilities, not only to themselves but also to their families, communities, and, most crucially, the nation because Nigeria’s future rests on the shoulders of its educated youth, and their role in shaping this future cannot be overemphasized.
He told them to embrace lifelong learning; develop resilience and a growth mindset; seek opportunities and take initiative; consider entrepreneurship and innovation; embrace agro-allied entrepreneurship; becoming good ambassadors of Lagos State University; uphold integrity and excellence and champion social responsibility, among others.
“As I draw the curtain on this convocation lecture, it is important that I re-emphasize the Imperative of collective responsibility for Nigeria’s future. Nigeria’s prosperity is the shared responsibility of every citizen.
“As graduates, you are in a unique position to influence the trajectory of our nation. It is essential that you promote patriotism by the love for your country demonstrated through actions, not just words. Be committed to the growth of Nigeria by advocating for good governance, respecting the law, and contributing positively to national discourse.
“Participate in democratic processes, including voting, policy advocacy, and civic engagement. Holding leaders accountable and contributing ideas for national progress is a duty, not an option.
“Drive innovation for national development by ensuring that your knowledge and skills are directed toward creating sustainable change,” he implored.
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