Educationists task youths on diligence, accountability 

Nigerian youths have been urged to adopt diligence and accountability as their recipes to attain success and have a great future.

This call was made by academicians at the Trinity University’s 4th Matriculation Ceremony and Lecture which was held recently in Lagos.

Making the charge, Mrs Comfort Eyitayo, the 57th President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria told the youths that accountability is critical for them to actualize their potential.

In the keynote lecture titled ‘Accountability and the Future of the Nigerian State’, Mrs Eyitayo, who was represented by Professor Rufus Akintoye, charged youths to be ready to taste themselves on the platform of accountability in their every endeavour.

Delivering the lecture, Professor Akintoye further harped on the need for accountability among Nigerians. “Accountability means the duty to give records. And individuals, organisations,  and governments all need to be accountable because it the easiest way to gain peoples’ trust and improves their morale. However, the lack of accountability breeds corruption, fraud and suspicion.”

He further told the 240 matriculants not to wait till the examination periods to get serious with their academics.

Professor Akintoye said, “The journey to getting a first-class degree starts now, not when you’re writing your exams. Your parents have paid for you to go to university, so you now must be serious with your academics.

“You’ll see a lot of youths that don’t know what they came to do in the university but don’t be swayed by peer pressure. Work hard and be accountable to yourself, your parents and God.

“Accountability starts now. Charge yourself to come out with first-class. Because the way you spent your time in the university would be reflected on your degree.”

Also speaking the vice-chancellor of the university, Professor Charles Ayo, while welcoming the students told them to be diligent in their studies and aim to be problem-solvers to the myriad of challenges plaguing Nigeria.

The VC said, “Furthermore, the future appears bleak because of the rising cases of drug abuse, kidnapping, ritual killing, etc. amongst the youths. So using the words of Albert Einstein – ‘To create the future, we need a huge shift in thinking, values, and action’.

“Therefore, it takes the concerted efforts of all and sundry to rebuild our country Nigeria. Parents need to collaborate with us to fight indiscipline and instil moral values in their children.”

Professor Ayo also warned the students to remain disciplined and obey all rules and regulations of Trinity University. “The motto of the University, which is, ‘Building on the Rock’, symbolises the fact that we aim to produce the Total-Man who is well-grounded Spiritually, Mentally balanced and of Impeccable character,” he said.

“From your experience so far, am convinced that you can picture a glorious future ahead of you. Recall that some students who resumed with you are no longer here on account of indiscipline arising from flagrant disregard for the rules and regulations of the University. To be a leader, you must first learn to obey rules.

“Remember, also, that there is no star without a scar. The scar of any Star is discipline and sacrifice. You must be obedient and go the extra mile to become a star in your field.

“Therefore, I charge you to abide by our rules. We have zero-tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, and every act of insubordination and disregard for the rule of law,” he added.