The President of the Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows Alumni Association of Nigeria (COSFAN), Dr. Ekundayo Samuel, has emphasized the urgent need for national unity, inclusive governance, and deliberate investment in young people as drivers of Nigeria’s transformation.

Speaking at the 2025 Youth Opportunity Summit, held on Saturday, December 6, at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, Dr. Ekundayo said the event could not have come at a more critical moment, given the social and economic realities confronting the country.

He said Nigeria’s challenges require collective intelligence, adding that the youth—who make up the country’s most energetic and innovative demographic—must be seen, heard, and strategically positioned for nation-building.

“There is no better time to have such a programme than now,” he said. “Considering the way the country is going, everybody needs to come together to solve challenges, and there are no better people to do that than the youth. I am happy this summit is happening here in UI, a place that has produced great minds.”

Dr. Ekundayo, who leads COSFAN—an influential network of scholars, researchers, innovators and global development professionals—said the association has been consistent and outspoken on youth inclusion, especially because of Nigeria’s cultural diversity and the need to harness talents across all regions.

He stressed: “At the Commonwealth Alumnus, we have taken our stand regarding inclusion. Looking at how diverse we are in this country, there is a need to harness every strength we have, in every region and from different backgrounds. The youth must be represented in everything that concerns the country going forward—that is the only way to move the nation forward.”

The COSFAN President noted that talent alone is not enough. To truly compete in a fast-changing global landscape, he urged young Nigerians to cultivate discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Drawing from his broader contribution at the summit, Dr. Ekundayo reminded participants that success is not predetermined by one’s background but shaped by choices, character, and consistency, emphasizing that opportunities often emerge through service, volunteerism and continuous self-improvement.

He reiterated that the country cannot advance without intentional structures that allow young people to contribute meaningfully to governance, innovation, and policy development.

He added: “Nigeria’s youth are not just beneficiaries of the future—they are architects of the future. We must empower them, engage them, and give them platforms to lead.”

Dr. Ekundayo commended the organisers of the summit—held in collaboration with the Presidency, Oyo State Government and Inspire for Impact Initiative—for providing young Nigerians with the space to learn, connect and build capacity for future leadership.