Abuja, Nigeria | August 11, 2024 — The Companion, an association of Muslim professionals and business leaders, concluded its landmark 2024 Conference and 6th National Discourse on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) Auditorium in Abuja. Held under the theme “Between Patriotism and Self-Preservation: Dilemma of the Nigerian Youth—Challenges at Home, Uncertainties Abroad,” the event addressed the pressing issue of brain drain (Japa syndrome) and charted actionable paths for youth empowerment, national development, and ethical leadership.
Japa Syndrome: A Call for Skills, Not Just Survival
The Discourse, attended by policymakers, diaspora experts, and academia, acknowledged migration (Hijrah) as a legitimate pursuit but cautioned Nigerian youth against embarking on perilous journeys without adequate preparation. Senator Barau Ibrahim Jibrin, Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the occasion, emphasized:
“Migration is inevitable in a globalized world, but it must follow lawful processes. Nigerian youth must prioritize acquiring education and skills that make them competitive both at home and abroad.”
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), echoed this sentiment through her representative, highlighting the dangers faced by unprepared migrants:
“Many of our youths suffer exploitation, abuse, and even death abroad. There’s no ‘El Dorado’—success begins with self-development here in Nigeria.”
Speakers unanimously urged youths to leverage Nigeria’s demographic advantage by focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, and value creation rather than “social media trivialities.”
Government’s Role: Bridging Gaps, Restoring Hope
While acknowledging the socio-economic hardships fueling the Japa wave, participants commended the Tinubu administration’s efforts to stabilize the economy but called for urgent reforms:
- Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development (represented by Hon. Ayodele Olawande)**, stressed the need for inclusive policies:
“We must create an enabling environment where youth potential thrives. Affordable education, skills training, and access to capital are non-negotiable.”
- Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, urged leaders to lead by example:
“Cut the cost of governance. Invest in rural infrastructure to reverse urban drift and revive agriculture. Patriotism starts with accountability.”
Critique of Palliative Measures: “Good Intentions, Flawed Execution”
The Companion expressed solidarity with Nigerians grappling with post-subsidy hardships but criticized the federal government’s palliative distribution strategy as “flawed and exclusionary.” The communiqué demanded
- Local Government Social Registries: Establish grassroots databases to ensure equitable distribution of relief materials.
- Security Overhaul: Combat oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and rural insecurity to restore confidence in farming and resource utilization.
- “Back to Land” Campaign: Bridge urban-rural infrastructure gaps to promote agro-based livelihoods and curb urban overcrowding.
Youth Panel: Resilience, Sacrifice, and Nation-Building
A highlight of the Discourse was a dynamic panel featuring young professionals from diverse fields. Panelists dissected the Japa dilemma, urging peers to:
- “Be part of the solution, not the problem.”
- “Leverage technology for innovation, not distraction.”
- “Collaborate with government and NGOs to drive community projects.”
The Dawn (youth wing) and The Criterion (women’s wing) further enriched the discourse with an intellectual game exploring practical solutions to migration challenges.
A Clarion Call to Action
The Companion closed the event with a five-point resolution:
- Youths: Prioritize skill acquisition, resilience, and ethical values.
- Government: Accelerate youth-centric policies, reduce governance costs, and secure rural areas.
- Diaspora: Promote Nigeria’s potential abroad and prepare for a “reverse Japa” as reforms yield results.
- Private Sector: Partner with NGOs like The Companion to fund vocational training and SMEs.
- Citizens: Hold leaders accountable while supporting national recovery efforts.
Gratitude and Commitment
The Companion extended appreciation to dignitaries, including Prof. Ishaq Oloyede (JAMB Registrar), Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, and members of The Criterion for their contributions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advocacy, education, and empowerment through initiatives like the Zakat & Sadaqah Fund, Dawah Holiday Programme (DHP), and Muslim Welfare Fund (MUWELF).
Signed:
Communiqué Drafting Committee
- Muideen Adeleke (Chairman)
- Tajudeen Balogun (Secretary)
- Dr. Saheed Adeyemo (Member)
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