- By Hussein Olanrewaju
On December 5, 2024, ip.com, in collaboration with the Mass Communication Student Association (MCSA), the University of Lagos, and Lagos Talk 91.3 FM, hosted the first edition of the Nigerian Factor, at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, University of Lagos, an event focused on addressing national issues.
Dignitaries from various parts of the country were invited, including the current Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, the former Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Comrade Ayo Adewale, Hon. Femi Saheed of the Lagos State House of Assembly (Kosofe Constituency II), Hon. Oladimeji Oresanya the Commissioner for Environment in Ogun State, Mr. Godwin Etakibuebu – Public Affairs Analyst & Journalist and others. The event was facilitated by Mr. Iposu Elijah Oluwakayode.
Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, the keynote speaker, addressed topics such as corruption and the misuse of funds by politicians. He emphasized, “We have a responsibility to our country, We need to rise up and awaken as Nigerians. Nigeria is hugely blessed, every single part of it.”
The former Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government highlighted the importance and need for youth to actively participate in politics, bringing new ideas and innovations to achieve a greater Nigeria.
Honorable Femi Saheed discussed the current economic situation in the country and emphasized that the youth, who represent a significant portion of the Nigerian population, play a vital role in economic reform. He noted that such reforms are often the most challenging in any country worldwide.
Hon. Oladimeji Oresanya, the Commissioner for Environment in Ogun State, provided insights on the government’s role regarding the environment. He stated, “The solution comes from the problem,” referring to the complexities surrounding Nigeria’s environment, population, and governance.
The president of the Mass Communication Student Association (MCSA) at the University of Lagos was invited to give a speech her speech was focused on people’s perceptions of their ideal Nigeria, she explained that we see our ideal Nigeria, in her words, as “one that works for us and the people around us”.
Noting that the term ‘ideal’ initially connoted perfection, she expressed disappointment that people’s aspirations for Nigeria have diminished. She concluded her speech by outlining four changes needed from Nigerians:
1. We need to change our definition of ‘ideal’ to mean ‘perfect.’
2. We need to change our expectations.
3. We must be ready to work.
4. We shouldn’t stop talking about our ideal Nigeria.
The event concluded with a session featuring Wofal Samuel, acting Director General of the Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Kunle Lawal, Executive Director of The Electoral College Nigeria.
The convener, Mr. Iposu Elijah Oluwakayode, assured attendees that this edition would not be the last, promising that future editions would be organized.
