The Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, has appealed to Nigerian sociologists and other academics to lead strategic efforts to reverse the exodus of youths and other citizens from the country.
Prof Agboola, who gave the charge at the 29th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Anthropological and Sociological Practitioners Association (NASA) held at the University’s Main Campus, Ago-Iwoye, pointed out that the solutions to Nigeria’s challenges lie not only in government policies but also in the active engagement of the academic community, civil society and others who seek a better future.
The conference with the theme, “Rebuilding Nigeria: Approach to Effective Governance and Social Transformation,” was organised in conjunction with the Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies.
Speaking in his office while receiving the NASA delegation led by its President, Prof Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, and the Vice-Chancellor noted that the increasing wave of Nigerian emigration abroad, known as japa syndrome, posed severe challenges for the country.
Prof Agboola warned that the repercussions of Japa might be grave for Nigeria in the next twenty years, urging the academic community to develop workable solutions to the nation’s myriad socio-economic and political problems.
“We are the only ones that can solve our problem; the white people (foreigners) will not come back here and solve it for us, no matter how they love us. Let us stop deceiving ourselves. They won’t take our best brains away if they love you.”
“I think this is what the eggheads need to sit down and critically look at. Let us forget about these politicians here and there who are leading us today. Given all these problems we face, we can come together and find a way as academics,” he said.
In her speech, Prof Yusuf said NASA conferences have consistently proven invaluable platforms for scholarly exchange, networking, and professional development. She added that they provide opportunities for researchers to present their work, engage in stimulating discussions, and forge lasting collaborations.
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