Education experts, traditional rulers, and community leaders have called for renewed efforts to promote good morals and sound values among young people in Nigeria.
The call was made during the Annual Lecture organised by Osun State University at its College of Education, Ipetu Ijesa Campus. Participants stressed that shaping the character of youths is important for the country’s future growth.
The lecture, titled “The Indispensable Role of Community Leaders in Shaping Youth Morality and National Character,” brought together academics, traditional leaders, government officials, religious figures, and students to discuss the moral direction of the nation.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research, and Innovation, Lawrence Adetunji Kehinde, said the university is committed to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also morally upright.
He noted that changes in everyday behaviour among young people show deeper ethical challenges and called for stronger cooperation between schools and community leaders to address the situation.
Delivering the keynote address, the Olojudo of Ido Osun Kingdom, Olayinka Oyetunde Ishola Jokotola II, described the present time as a critical period in Nigeria’s moral history.
He warned that today’s leaders would be judged by the values they pass on to the younger generation. According to him, integrity, resilience, digital responsibility, and civic duty are key to rebuilding the nation.
He added that youth involvement in social vices often shows a lack of proper guidance at home, in schools, and within leadership structures. He urged religious leaders, policymakers, teachers, and business owners to support ethical behaviour.
Also speaking, the Owa of Igbajo Kingdom, Makinde Ademola Stephen Kayode, said families remain the foundation of moral training. He called for a return to shared responsibility in raising children.
In her welcome address, the Provost of the College, Florence Adeoti Yusuf, described traditional rulers as important custodians of culture and discipline. She said young people see them as role models and symbols of leadership.
She also commended donors who supported students during the event. Engineer Raji Kehinde Ayoola, Chairman of ARAJ Construction Group, awarded scholarships to 20 students, while Chief Ilesanmi supported five outstanding learners.
The programme was chaired by the Ajalaye of Ipetu Ijesa and Paramount Ruler, Adeleke Agunbiade Oke Agunbiade III, highlighting the continued role of traditional institutions in youth development.
One of the major highlights was the recognition of renowned educationist Olu Aina for his lifetime contributions to learning. Several staff members, including Dr Jubril Fakokunde, Dr Peter Sanjo Adewale, and Dr Rukayat Iwintolu, were also honoured for their service.
Overall, speakers agreed that rebuilding social values requires joint efforts from families, schools, communities, and leaders.
By bringing together voices from education, tradition, and public service, the Annual Lecture reaffirmed the College’s role as a centre for learning and national reflection, while reminding Nigerians that the true strength of any society lies in the character of its youth.
