Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, has urged Nigerians who are willing to emigrate (Japa in local parlance) to do so, stressing that Nigeria has everything it needs to turn the corner.
Speaking at the convocation service of Veritas University, Kukah noted that frustration was a leading factor for many young persons seeking to leave Nigeria.
He said for Nigeria to turn the corner, citizens must look away from politicians as they have failed to deliver the change that would put the country on the global growth trajectory.
“I encourage young people who want to leave Nigeria to please, feel free to leave. The country is big enough. We can assure you that by the time you settle down in the United States of America or wherever you have gone, you will discover that Nigeria needs you,” Kukah said.
Adding that “And for those you left behind, our hope and prayer is that they will be competing at the same level with you. We have everything that it takes to turn the corner.”
“We have everything that it takes to turn the corner. Change is not the change we expect from politicians. It is the change that will come with a big intellectual understanding of the complex nature of this country. So every graduate who walks out of the portals of Veritas will be truly equipped mentally and intellectually to conquer Nigeria.”
Kukah encouraged the graduating students to toe in the footsteps of the school alumni. “Do not forget your alma mater because you are standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before you. Do not forget the sacrifices you have made.”
The Christian leader is a fierce critic of the government and has led many protests against previous Nigerian governments.
