Prominent human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana (SAN), has issued a passionate call to Nigerian youths, urging them to rise and take back the country from the older generation.
Speaking at the 6th Annual Youth Leadership Conference held at the University of Lagos, themed “RISE 2025 – Resilience, Innovation, Social Responsibility and Entrepreneurship,” Falana emphasized the need for young people to reclaim Nigeria and redefine its future.
“We Lived with Dignity—You Deserve the Same”
Addressing the audience, Falana lamented the current state of the nation, noting the stark contrast between his generation’s experience and what young Nigerians are facing today.
“We didn’t suffer what you are going through. My generation lived with dignity, and we had big dreams—dreams of Nigeria becoming one of the greatest nations in the world. But look at where we are now.”
He pointed out that despite the country’s vast natural and human resources, poor leadership has plunged it into crises—leaving today’s youth to bear the brunt.
Challenge Power and Demand Change
Falana urged the younger generation to speak truth to power and challenge the status quo wherever possible.
“When you meet those in power, challenge them. Many belong to my generation, and we owe you better. Don’t wait to be told you’re the leaders of tomorrow—you must be the leaders of today. Take back what’s left!”
He also encouraged youths to draw inspiration from legendary African musicians who used their voices to champion justice and social change.
“Listen to the music of great African artists. There’s power in their messages, and that power can inspire you to fight for justice.”
“Nigeria Is Not Poor – It Lacks Ideas”
Debunking the notion that Nigeria is a poor nation, Falana declared:
“Nigeria is not poor. What we have is a poverty of ideas. Don’t accept the lie that we’re doomed—what we lack is leadership that thinks and acts for the people.”
Youth Must Lead Nigeria’s Rise
Olusegun Odufuwa, the convener of the conference, described RISE as more than an acronym—it’s a movement and a mission.
“Nigeria stands at a critical juncture. We have talent, we have diversity, and we have potential. But to rise, we need a generation that is resilient, innovative, socially responsible, and entrepreneurial.”
Odufuwa emphasized that the nation’s transformation will not come from policy alone but from the collective action and passion of its youth.
“It’s time to stop waiting. The future is now, and it belongs to those who are bold enough to build it.”
