Invade Politics, Take Back Your Country Osinbajo Urges Youths
Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has sounded a clarion call to Nigerian youths, especially Christians, to actively participate in the country’s political landscape, emphasizing that it is the only way to bring about meaningful transformation and leadership in the nation.
Speaking at the 2nd Annual Daniel Taiwo Odukoya Memorial Lecture, held at The Fountain of Life Church in Lagos, Osinbajo stressed that politics, despite its negative perception, remains the most legitimate means of influencing a nation and shaping its future. He challenged the widespread disillusionment with politics, urging youths to get involved in the political process, rather than standing on the sidelines and complaining about the state of the nation.
“If we are not involved in choosing leaders, shaping policy, or participating in political parties, then we forfeit our right to complain when outcomes don’t reflect our values,” Osinbajo said, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and political participation.
The former Vice President, who has been a vocal advocate for youth involvement in politics, advised young Nigerians aspiring to serve in public office to prepare themselves intellectually and morally for the challenges of leadership.
He stressed the need for them to study, understand how things work, and develop a deep knowledge of governance, healthcare, education, and economic systems, particularly in the African context.
Osinbajo warned that passion alone is not enough to produce meaningful results in politics, and that leadership demands more.
“Many people go into politics with nothing, no plan, no knowledge, and end up achieving nothing,” he said, emphasizing the need for preparation and a clear understanding of the complexities of governance.
The event, which was themed “The Evolving Relationship Between the Church and the Government in Nigeria,” brought together thought leaders, clergy, policymakers, and youths seeking to explore the intersection of faith and governance. Osinbajo’s keynote address was a call to action, urging Nigerians, especially youths, to take back their country by getting involved in the political process and shaping the nation’s future.
The former Vice President’s message is particularly significant, given the current state of the nation and the need for a new generation of leaders who can bring about positive change and transformation. As the country prepares for future elections, Osinbajo’s call to action is a reminder that the power to shape the nation’s future lies in the hands of its citizens, particularly the youths, who must take an active role in the political process to bring about the change they desire.
