The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State chapter, has urged young Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers by actively participating in nation-building.

The state NYCN Chairman, Ibrahim Adigun, gave the advice in his Independence Day message on Thursday in Lagos.

He highlighted the pivotal role young people played in Nigeria’s struggle for independence, noting that their courage and commitment secured the country’s sovereignty.

Mr Adigun said that the current generation of youths must now take up the mantle to sustain and progress the nation.

He stated, “The sacrifices of our founding fathers gave us this nation, and it is now on us to sustain it. Their courage, sacrifices and commitment to a free and prosperous Nigeria should remind every young Nigerian that we have a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the progress of our country.”

Mr Adigun urged youths to take initiative rather than wait for others to shape their future.

He called on them to participate, innovate, lead, and contribute positively to their communities and the nation.

The NYCN chairman urged young people to continue to demand quality education, decent employment, inclusive governance, security,  digital access and other things that would promote development.

“This is our time to participate, innovate, lead and contribute. We must continue to demand quality education, decent employment opportunities, inclusive governance, security, digital access and an enabling environment where young people can turn their ideas and talents into productive ventures,” he said.

Mr Adigun encouraged Lagos youths to remain hopeful and patriotic, embracing responsible citizenship and active involvement in Nigeria’s development.

“As we celebrate Nigeria at 66, let us sustain our hope and remain committed to building the Nigeria we desire. Let us honour the sacrifices of those who came before us by becoming responsible citizens and active participants in nation-building.

“Together, as the youth of Lagos and as young Nigerians, we can play our part in building a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria,” he said. 

(NAN)