Nigerians, especially young people, have been called upon to reawaken and embrace virtues of discipline, love of country and selfless service as their individual and collective contributions to the building of the great nation of their dream.

Ms. Rinsola Abiola, Director General/CEO, of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), made the call on Tuesday at the Moni Lisa Event Centre, Abuja venue of ‘Nigeria @ 65 Conference, organized by the Centre.

Themed – Restoring Values and Volunteerism Among the Youths, Conference was organized was part of events to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence and had partners that include the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Nigeria Youth Futures Fund, United Nations Office in Nigeria, and Aspitan Global, among others.

In her welcome address, Rinsola, daughter of the famous late Chief MKO Abiola, presumed winner of the June 12 presidential election that was annulled by the military, said Nigeria’s strength lies in her citizens, especially the youths and called for a redirection of the nation’s leadership, a task she said begins with the people.

She thanked all the partner agencies and private initiatives for supporting CLTC to organize the conference, saying the event provides a platform to reflect on the principles that once defined Nigeria as a people and to chart new pathways through which young people can reclaim the spirit of volunteerism, ethos she noted, drive active citizenship and national renewal.

Rinsola said- “This gathering is both timely and symbolic. At 65, our nation stands at a critical point where the restoration of core values, integrity, discipline, service and empathy, has become indispensable to our collective growth. As an institution established to build character, inculcate leadership, and promote national unity through citizenship and leadership education, the CLTC remains deeply committed to the task of nurturing a generation of responsible and patriotic citizens.

“I am particularly delighted to see the diversity of participants represented here young leaders, students, government officials, and partners from across the country and beyond. Your presence signifies a shared belief that Nigeria’s strength lies in her people, especially her youth.

“We are honoured to host distinguished speakers and visionary young leaders such as Mr. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, who will inspire us on “The Power of One: How Volunteerism Can Reshape Our Nation,” and Prof. Tunji Olaopa, whose keynote on “Values-Driven Leadership” will challenge us to bridge the gap between aspiration and service.

“Our discussions today from the Youth Leadership Debate Finale to the Panel on Grassroots Volunteerism and Policy Reform are designed to be practical, participatory, and forward-looking. It is our hope that the outcomes will not only inform policy but also inspire action among Nigerian youth everywhere.

“As we celebrate Nigeria at 65, let us rededicate ourselves to building a nation defined by values, service and unity. Let us remember that leadership begins with citizenship and that every act of volunteerism, no matter how small, contributes to the greatness of our country.

“On behalf of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, I welcome you all once again and wish us fruitful deliberations.”

Goodwill messages were given by the representative of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the UN Office in Nigeria, among others, before the commencement of other activities including the NYFF Youth Leadership Debate Finale.