Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) former Director-General and founder of The Sally Mbanefo Foundation (TSM), Dr. (Mrs.) Sally Mbanefo (Nee Uwechue) has urged Nigerian youths wishing to seek greener pastures in foreign lands to perish the idea.
She spoke at the Young Lives Matter…I no go Japa campaign organised by The Sally Mbanefo Foundation in Lagos.
She said: “Today, I call upon all the youths who are on the verge of japa-ing (leaving) Nigeria to perish that thought. You can still achieve your best dreams, shaping them to reflect your tastes, as you can still put your best hands on the tools of history and make a brighter future.”
“I believe that in today’s Nigeria, there is a new energy to unleash and harness your potentials, new jobs and wealth to be created, new schools to be built by the strength and can do spirit of our resilient youths.”
“The road to the success of the youth of our nation has often been painful and arduous. So, we know we may not accomplish all our targets in one year, or even four, but I have never been hopeful than I am today that the hard working but undeserved youth of Nigeria will succeed beyond measure.”
“There may be setbacks and false starts. And there are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy that our foundation makes, for we know that no foundation can solve every problem. Nevertheless, we also know the challenges that our youth currently face.”
“We will listen to the youth and above all, we will ask all of you to join in this patriotic work of remaking our nation, the only way it has been done in other successful nations, a step by step with determination, courage and hard work- no instant gratification but delayed gratification, work now and play later. There is no other way. This is the sustainable path.”
“Let us remember that if the present economic crisis facing our beloved country has taught us anything, it is that we cannot have a safe and healthy middle class, if the poor are suffering. In this country, we all rise and fall as one nation- as one people.”
“To our youths whose hope are shattered, we will restore your hope. To our youths who long for peace, stability and job security in an increasingly unpredictable world, we will support you in achieving your goals.”
“And to all those who profess that the dreams of our founding fathers have burnt out, we assure you that the flames can be rekindled. For that is the true measure of the greatness of our youth, their capacity for change.”
“And the change they have already achieved gives us hope for what they can and must achieve tomorrow.”
“At TSM, we are dedicated to providing an enriching and holistic learning experience for all our students. We have carefully curated the Microsoft IT Training program to align with industry skills requirement, ensuring that young people can seamlessly integrate these skills into their academic and career journey.”
“Together, we can catalyse a movement that not only prevents the brain drain from our nation but also ignites a resurgence of hope within our borders.”
“The journey ahead will not be easy, but with your support and collective determination, we can turn the tide of despair and hopelessness into waves of prosperity and progress.”
“Let us move forward, hand in hand, as we usher in a new era of empowerment, innovation, and unparalleled impact.”
“My journey into mentoring and leadership development programmes started twelve years ago, when I established an Education Trust Fund at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos with the then Parish Priest; Monsignor Paschal Nwaezeapu.”
“In Lagos, our support has extended to areas like Mafoluku and Akowonjo where the Dominican priests lead youth development initiatives. St. Mary’s Private School is one of our cherished beneficiaries, fostering growth and learning. Cana Mercy Mission, another beacon of hope, has also received my unwavering support on behalf of the foundation.”