Students urged to embrace integrity, leadership at Osun independence conference

As Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence anniversary, students in Osogbo were charged to uphold integrity, critical thinking, and character building as vital tools for nation-building.

Speaking at the International Independence Day Secondary School Student Conference, Professor Chinwe Obuaku Igwe Director-General and Special Envoy to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, described young people as crucial to Nigeria’s future.

“Students are not just the future; they are important today, corruption does not only belong to the political scene, examination malpractices are part of it. Every Nigerian student must be ready to lead by example”, she stated.

She further urged the young participants to shun tribalism and religious intolerance, emphasizing that every great nation begins with an idea nurtured by its people.

Also speaking, Hon. Segun Oyewole, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilisation, noted that deliberate efforts are required to achieve the Nigeria of citizens’ dreams.

“Nigeria’s dream can never happen by chance but by choice, we must be bold enough to become the change we desire and start thinking like leaders”, he explained.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Dr. Femi Bello of Redeemers University, Mr. Bolatito stressed the need for integrity and consistency in leadership.

“Nigeria has never happened to Nigerians except Nigerians happen to Nigeria, nation-building is an ongoing process, and students must pledge to lead faithfully, diligently, and with integrity”, he declared.

Host and project convener, Precious Ibuoye, a corps member, encouraged students to recognize the power of their creativity and contributions in shaping society.

“Never despise your little ideas, true greatness is not measured by what you own, but by the lives you touch. Change begins with small actions that improve our communities” , He said.

The conference featured school presentations and interactive sessions, with students raising thought-provoking questions about independence and Nigeria’s future.

The event ended with a collective charge to students to become active drivers of national progress, starting from their immediate environments.