This impassioned plea was made during a grand ceremony held in Abuja over the weekend to commemorate the graduation of the 2023 cohort of the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG).

The convocation event attracted high-profile speakers who delivered compelling messages, urging the graduates to champion positive change and accountability in Nigerian governance.

It underscored the critical importance of active engagement and accountability in the governance process in Nigeria, aligning with the overarching mission of the SPPG.

Alero Ayida-Otobo, the CEO of SPPG, observed a remarkable surge in the number of applications to the school, which she attributed to increased media coverage. She explained the SPPG’s purpose as nurturing a new generation of political leaders committed to listening and serving the emerging class of citizens who are aware of their rights.

In a heartfelt message to the graduates, Ayida-Otobo emphasized their role as custodians of the future.

She outlined the ‘CERTAIN’ acronym, representing the qualities essential for effective leadership: Connection, Evidence-driven decision making, Resilience, Tirelessness, Integrity, and Non-negotiable values.

She expressed gratitude to the MacArthur Foundation, Arise News, and the Gerrad Olisa-Asha (GOA) Foundation for their steadfast support.

Dr. Yetunde Anibaba, the Dean of Faculty at SPPG, envisioned a future characterized by peace and justice in Nigeria and across Africa. She confidently asserted, “Make no mistake, we will rewrite the history of this nation and continent, and when that history is read, I hope you’ll be on the right side of it.”

Ndidi Justina Edeoghon, the Best Graduating Student (Female) and recipient of the Benjamin and Cecilia Ujubuonu 21st Century Leadership Award, shared her motivation for participating in the program.

She expressed deep concern for the Nigerian economy and credited her SPPG experience with equipping her with the skills needed to navigate economic challenges effectively.

Dr. Oby Ezekwesili echoed the call for a value-oriented societal transformation, asserting that“Africa’s change is certain and inevitable, but it will not happen without correcting the anomalies. Stand on character. Every other thing may fade away, but it never does. Character is the currency of life.”