The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has called on all Nigerians, particularly fresh graduates, to actively contribute to nation-building, emphasizing that the collective effort of every citizen is vital to achieving a prosperous Nigeria.
Dr. Alausa made this call on Tuesday while delivering the 28th Convocation Lecture of Lagos State University (LASU) at its main campus in Ojo. The lecture was titled “Patriotism, Citizenship, and National Ownership: The Imperative of Collective Responsibility for Nigeria’s Future.”
Speaking to the audience, the minister highlighted that the future of Nigeria does not rest solely on government actions, but more importantly, on the shared commitment and involvement of the people.
“Every citizen, including the young graduates we are celebrating today, must accept the responsibility of playing their part in building the nation,” he said. “Patriotism and responsible citizenship are critical ingredients for national progress, and education plays a crucial role in instilling these values—especially among the youth.”
He emphasized that patriotism goes beyond reciting the national anthem or pledging loyalty to the flag, noting that true patriotism is demonstrated through a deep, active commitment to the unity, growth, and progress of the country.
Dr. Alausa also stressed that Nigerian citizenship—whether acquired by birth, naturalization, registration, or honorary recognition—should not be viewed solely as a platform for enjoying rights, but as a duty to contribute meaningfully to national governance and development.
Acknowledging the current socio-economic and political challenges facing the country, he expressed confidence that, with unity and collective action, Nigeria can overcome its hurdles and become a nation everyone is proud of.
He congratulated the graduating students and praised LASU for equipping them with knowledge and skills, urging the new graduates to remain committed to lifelong learning and to strive to make positive impacts in their communities and beyond.
Earlier in the event, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, echoed the minister’s sentiments. She said that true patriotism is not just about carrying a Nigerian passport but about each individual’s contribution to the nation’s peace, progress, and prosperity.
She expressed appreciation to both Dr. Alausa and Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who chaired the event, for honouring the institution with their presence and insights. She noted that their contributions would leave a lasting impact on the graduands and the entire academic community.
However, the Vice-Chancellor expressed concern over the previous removal of History from Nigeria’s primary school curriculum, noting that the decision had caused “generational gaps” in historical knowledge among young Nigerians.
She commended the federal government’s decision to reintroduce History into the curriculum, emphasizing that understanding the country’s past is essential for shaping a strong national identity and future.
“Nigeria cannot afford to lose touch with its rich heritage,” she said, stressing that education must play a central role in rekindling national values and pride.
