Ex-Lagos Governor, Fashola Advises Youth Against ‘Japa’, Says Leaders Don’t Run Away

Babatunde Fashola, the former Lagos State Governor, has urged Nigerian youths to remain in the country even in the face of economic challenges.

Recall that in recent times, there has been a wave of migration by Nigerians who are seeking greener pastures abroad.

‘Japa’ is a popular word used to describe migration in the country.

Fashola, while speaking on Saturday at the combined 8th and 9th convocation ceremonies of Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, encouraged the youth to strive for positions of influence in the country instead of seeking opportunities abroad.

According to him, leaders don’t run away even when things are tough.

“Why did Mrs Folorunso Alakija not run away? Why did Chief Tunde Afolabi, who has contributed to Nigeria, not run away? Why are they still here?

“Times were equally tough in their younger days. The youths have become leaders in the Nigerian household, and therefore, they must embrace that responsibility.

“Do leaders also run away when it is difficult? There were tough times when Chief Ade-Ojo was at the University of Nigeria (UNN), but Ade-Ojo didn’t leave. If he had left, there would be no Elizade University,” he said.