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By Madu Obi
Labour Party stalwart and frontline governorship aspirant in Anambra State for 2025 election, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, has advocated active citizenship as a panacea towards tackling challenges facing Nigeria.
Delivering the Convocation speech at the 7th-12th Convocation of Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State, Ozigbo described faithful citizenship as not only enjoying rights, but also the activation of the power to resist injustice in the society.
Speaking on the topic - 'Redeeming Ourselves: A Call for True Citizenship,' Ozigbo said Nigerians must realize that they hold within them the power to shape the future, to lead with courage and compassion, and to make a difference in the world.
According to him, "our duty as citizens is about recognizing our past mistakes, taking responsibility for them, and committing to a better future,” adding that “faithful citizenship is a call to action.”
He said further: “Remember that faithful citizenship is not a passive state but an active commitment. It is about standing up for justice, advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves, and working tirelessly to create a society that reflects our highest ideals.
“Active citizenship means holding yourself and, in turn, your government and leaders accountable. Society falters when leaders are not held to account, and it is our duty as citizens to ensure that they serve with integrity and transparency.
"To be a good citizen, operate within the law, strive for excellence, and let your actions be a testament to the values you hold dear.
“Each of us has the power to make a difference, to be a beacon of hope and progress. Together, let's build a nation where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every dream has the chance to flourish.
“Therefore, our responsibility as citizens is crucial. The Almighty God has blessed us with abundant natural and human resources. If Nigeria is not in the rightful place in the comity of nations where it should be, the issue lies in our abuse of citizenship.
“You are equipped not just with knowledge and talents but also with responsibility. You must harness your knowledge, skills, and collective will to build a nation that reflects our highest ideals.
"We are blessed with vast natural and human resources, but these blessings come with the responsibility to steward them wisely and justly.
Our nation's future hinges on our ability to rise above the failures of the past and embrace a new ethos of citizenship grounded in integrity, service, and compassion.
You have the power to resist injustice in your society. Faithful citizenship is more than enjoying rights; it requires fulfilling your duties with integrity and commitment to building a better future. The discipline and values you have acquired at this institution demand that you strive for excellence and make a meaningful contribution.”
He told graduates of Tansian University that they have been equipped not just with knowledge and talents, but also with responsibility.
"You must harness your knowledge, skills, and collective will to build a nation that reflects our highest ideals. We are blessed with vast natural and human resources, but these blessings come with the responsibility to steward them wisely and justly.
"Today, I call on each of you, as graduates of Tansian University, to be the torchbearers of this new vision. I urge you all to embrace your role as active citizens and work tirelessly to create a society that honours dignity, justice, and equality. By doing so, you will not only redeem yourselves, but also pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come.
"Your role in nation-building is not just crucial; it is your purpose. It is your purpose to positively impact society and contribute to the progress of our nation,"
he stated.
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