Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has challenged Nigerian youths to take greater responsibility for building a prosperous, secure and united nation, declaring that the country's future depends largely on the younger generation.

Obasanjo gave the charge while delivering the convocation lecture at the sixth convocation ceremony of KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, held as part of activities marking the institution's 10th anniversary.

Speaking on the theme, “The Nigeria We Want: Education, Leadership and the Responsibility of a New Generation,” he urged graduating students to look beyond their academic certificates and recognise their responsibilities towards national development.

He said Nigeria's future could not be built by foreigners but required the commitment and contributions of Nigerians, particularly young people.

According to him, education must go beyond acquiring certificates to developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, technical competence, adaptability and good character.

The former President called on government and other stakeholders to invest in quality teachers, accessible education, science and technology, digital innovation and skills development.

He also urged private universities to maintain high academic standards, insisting that their certificates must reflect genuine learning and competence.

Addressing the institution, Obasanjo described private universities as partners of public institutions in advancing national education, urging them to uphold standards and avoid awarding grades students had not earned.

On leadership, he maintained that public office should be regarded as an opportunity to serve rather than a means of personal enrichment.

He identified integrity, discipline, courage, compassion and accountability as essential qualities of responsible leadership, adding that the responsibility to lead extended beyond political officeholders to families, workplaces, institutions and communities.

Obasanjo also encouraged young Nigerians to participate actively in governance, embrace productivity and honesty, promote national unity and contribute to their communities.

He cautioned against internet fraud, examination malpractice and other dishonest practices, urging graduates to build their reputations through hard work and integrity.

The former President further encouraged them to explore opportunities in entrepreneurship, technology and agribusiness rather than depend solely on government employment.

He warned against using social media to promote ethnic and religious divisions, stressing the need for unity among Nigerians.

Obasanjo urged the youths not to abandon the country because of its challenges, saying Nigerians must take responsibility for addressing the nation's problems.

He expressed confidence in the younger generation, describing them as a potential solution to the country's development challenges.

The former President also commended the university's founder and Chancellor, Bashorun Kola Daisi, for investing in the education of young Nigerians.

He congratulated the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olajumoke Abimbola Morenikeji, on her appointment and urged her to protect and strengthen the institution's reputation.

The ceremony was attended by members of the university's governing council, principal officers, staff, students, parents and representatives of other institutions.