The high rate of Nigerian Youths seeking greener pastures abroad has contributed to the brain drain syndrome bedeviling the Nation. To stem it, President Bola Tinubu has an advice. He has asked Nigerian graduates to utilize their knowledge and skills to uplift society and contribute to the country’s growth and development instead of seeking greener pastures abroad.
He made this appeal during the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremonies of the University of Uyo, UNIUYO, held at the University’s Main Campus, Calabar.
He advised graduates against hastily seeking opportunities abroad, and called on Universities to pursue innovative research that advances national development.
“Education is the cornerstone of national development,” he noted, “and it must be both responsive and transformative for progress to occur.”
He continued, “The government has invested significantly in your education, equipping you to make meaningful contributions to society. As you step into the world, I urge you to be agents of positive change, using your skills to uplift our society and contribute to Nigeria’s growth and global development. Resist the urge to look for greener pastures elsewhere. Together, we can make our own pastures equally green, if not greener.”
He lamented that much of Nigeria’s research ends up on shelves instead of driving impactful change. He acknowledged Nigeria’s current challenges but reassured the audience that the government is committed to addressing these issues and mitigating their impact, particularly on the most vulnerable.
“I ask for the support and understanding of Nigerians toward the government’s economic reform programs, despite the challenges they bring,” he added.
