The Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, has implored the Nigerian youth to fight corruption with all seriousness it deserves.
He particularly enjoined them to build a future rooted in integrity and transparency.
Peters stated this on Monday, December 9, 2024 during the flag-off of Anti-Corruption Campaign in commemoration of the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day.
The event was organised by the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) at the university’s headquarters, Jabi, Abuja.
“This pandemic erodes trust, compromises justice, and stands as one of the greatest barriers to sustainable development.
"Youth represents more than half of the world’s population. You are the energy, the ideas, the voices, and the drivers of change that can dismantle systems of corruption and build a future rooted in integrity and transparency," he said.
Speaking on this year’s theme: “Uniting with Youth against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” he said youth “bring energy, innovation, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
"You are digital natives who can use technology to expose corruption, demand transparency, and mobilise change.
“Throughout history, young people have led movements that reshaped societies, and today, your voices are just as powerful in the fight against corruption."
The VC added that the youth must educate themselves about integrity, demand inclusion in decision-making, and collaborate with others who share the vision of a transparent future, saying that by uniting, youth can build a culture that rejects corruption and embraces accountability.
“I urge you to lead with integrity in your communities and never underestimate your power. Corruption is not invincible. It is a human-made problem and with your determination and creativity, it can be dismantled," the VC said.
While calling on the leaders to include the youth in decision-making as well as engage with them as equal partners with a view to eliminating corruption, the NOUN VC said that “we need a multigenerational approach – one that harnesses the energy of the youth and the wisdom of the experienced.
"Let us envision a future where transparency and accountability are not just ideals but the reality of our governance and institution," he added.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Head, Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), Mrs. Doris C-L Ezenwa, commended the leadership of Prof. Olufemi Peters and the entire management team of NOUN for their exemplary efforts in promoting integrity within the institutions.
Ezenwa said that through the initiatives aimed at streamlining administrative processes, ensuring fairness in academic evaluations, and implementing anti-corruption measures, NOUN has become a model of ethical governance.
While divulging the dangers of corruption such as depriving young people of access to quality education and fair employment opportunities among others, Ezenwa said youth are central to the fight against corruption by promoting transparency, encouraging ethical leadership, among others.
“The fight against corruption is a collective journey. Each act of integrity brings us closer to a society where corruption is unthinkable and ethical values are celebrated.
"The future begins with us – let us embrace this responsibility and work together to create a Nigeria we can be proud of," the Head of ACTU said.
This year’s International Anti-Corruption Day featured: anti-corruption sensitisation, health walk and free medical check for members of staff.
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