The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerian youth to value the guidance and wisdom of their elders, emphasizing that the fight against corruption must begin in the home.
Speaking at a one-day workshop for women and youth on corruption prevention, organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja, Tinubu underscored the critical role of families in shaping a corruption-free society.
Addressing participants, she stressed the importance of listening to parents and elder mentors. “We must move beyond the desire to have our voices heard and step into roles where our actions are impactful,” said the First Lady. She referenced the proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” drawing a parallel to the national need for collective action to eradicate corruption.
Senator Tinubu urged mothers to fulfill their nurturing roles, noting that corruption spans every part of society—from marketplaces to government offices, judiciary, and even places of worship. She expressed that mothers and women leaders must not solely rely on government agencies in the battle against this pervasive issue. “It is time for us to take our place as mothers, grandmothers, aunties, sisters, leaders, and reformers to do the needful,” she remarked, emphasizing the role of women in guiding children to uphold integrity.
Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, Chairman of the ICPC, echoed her sentiments, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to tackling corruption through a holistic approach that includes engaging mothers, youth, and other vital stakeholders. Messages of support also came from key figures, including the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, who highlighted the need for mothers to ensure the next generation does not inherit a legacy of corruption.
The Commissioner for Youth in Kogi State added that youth should channel their energy from protests to active participation in nation-building. The workshop, themed “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption,” attracted youth representatives from various sectors, women’s groups, and security agencies, all united in a commitment to a corruption-free future for Nigeria.
