Foundation Urges Undergraduates To Uphold Social Justice

A non-profit organisation, Nation of Justice (NOJ), has called on undergraduates across Nigerian universities to uphold social justice and perform their civic duties, describing them as essential tools for building a society where equality and justice prevail for all.

The founder of NOJ, Jyde Adelakun, made the call during the organisation’s just-concluded two-day sensitisation programme for undergraduates.

He emphasised that true freedom is rooted in responsibility, discipline, and service to the common good.

“True freedom does not mean the absence of responsibility. True freedom means the courage to act rightly, the discipline to obey the law, and the sacrifice to serve the common good,” Adelakun stated.

Citing constitutional provisions, he explained that under Section 24 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), every Nigerian is obligated to abide by the Constitution, respect its ideals, promote national interest, assist lawful authorities in maintaining law and order, and contribute positively to national development.

He further referenced Section 23 of the Constitution, which outlines the National Ethics, stressing that the principles must not remain mere words on paper.

“These are not ceremonial ideals; they must live in our hearts and reflect in our daily conduct,” he said.

Quoting a former United States president, John Kennedy, Adelakun urged the youths to begin thinking about what they could do for their country rather than what the country could do for them.

Adelakun, who also serves as the executive director of TOF Energy Company Limited, underscored that discipline, integrity, dignity of labour, social justice and patriotism are binding moral and civic responsibilities for every young Nigerian.

He called on citizens to lawfully demand accountability while supporting government efforts aimed at nation-building.

“And let it be clearly understood: this call is not optional. It is your constitutional duty, and it is my constitutional duty,” he declared.

Challenging students to reflect deeply on the meaning of justice, he added: “Justice is not delayed until it loses meaning. Justice is the condition of freedom under the rule of law, where rights are protected, duties are enforced, and power is held accountable.”

He urged the students not to consider themselves too young to influence Nigeria’s future.

Following the enlightenment sessions, about 1,869 students currently sitting for examinations received welfare support packages to ease their financial burden.

Each beneficiary received either 3.5 kilograms of garri, beans, or rice, alongside sachets of cornflakes, milk, vegetable oil, instant noodles, as well as notebooks and pens.

Some of the beneficiaries described the gesture as timely and impactful.

A 100-level Finance student, Elijah Confidence, said the support would ease feeding pressures during examinations.

Another student, Husaybah Gabadin, a law undergraduate, noted that many hostel residents had already exhausted their food supplies. Beyond the material support, she said the founder’s message resonated deeply with her.