- Safiu Kehinde
Nigerian Media Consultant and academician, Ibrahim Fatoyinbo, has charged youths across the country to rise above adversity and commit to purposeful action towards self-discovery.
Fatoyinbo gave the charge during his address at the 2025 Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) held at the Sea School in Apapa, Lagos.
Speaking on the topic “Building Leadership Skills for Positive Social Change,” the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) lecturer harped on the need for youths to utilise the potentials and explore opportunities.
“You must give all it takes to find yourself,” he said.
“Because you are from a poor background doesn’t mean your back should be on the ground.” He said.
Fatoyinbo emphasized that social change starts with simple collective efforts, such as discouraging littering, supporting peers with school fees, and advocating for communities in need.
He also shared his personal journey of finding his voice to “amplify the voiceless.”
In his submission, Fatoyinbo held that leadership role requires action.
The RYLA 2025 programme, themed “Empowering Young Leaders to Unite for Good,” was organized by Rotary International District 9111 under District Governor Rotarian Henry Akinyele (2025–2026).
It brought together young leaders to discuss Nigeria’s challenges and explore ways to build solutions.
According to report, participants at the event also disclosed the challenges facing youths in the country.
For Adeniyi Emmanuel, the soaring price of food is one major challenge Nigerian youths are facing.
Lawal Sofia lamented over the scarcity of jobs, while Anuoluwapo considered leaving the country for education.
In contrast, a participant simply identified as Adebayo declared his resolve to stay back and “build young leaders” for better governance.
Another participant, Gabriel Kehinde, voiced hope that “if we are united, it will get better.”
Other speakers also lent their voices. Mr. Zaki, Assistant Controller of Nigeria Immigration Services, representing CIS Olufunke Yetunde, cautioned against irregular migration, outlining its dangers under the so-called “Japa syndrome.”
The event also featured contributions from Mr. Adesola Fakile, Creative Technologist and Solutions Architect at Megaheadz, and former RYLA president, Miss Evbota.
The welcome address was delivered by AG Ibironke Ogun, Chairperson of the RYLA 2025 Planning Committee.