Former Jigawa State governor Alhaji Sule Lamido and former Kaduna State governor Sen. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi addressed Nigerian youths at a one‑day lecture held on Sunday in Dutse to mark Lamido’s 78th birthday.
The event, attended by political associates and admirers, was chaired by Makarfi under the theme “Re‑orienting the youths on politics of ideology towards rebuilding a New Nigeria.” He said the timing was “very apt” as the 2027 general elections approach.
In his remarks, Makarfi warned that youths in the Northwest are “presently in a state of confusion” compared with those in the Southwest and South‑South, who appear more focused. He urged northern youths to learn from their peers and to adopt leadership qualities that could be translated into their local environments.
Lamido chose to reflect on his birthday rather than hold a lavish celebration. He lamented that “those of us who benefited from the leadership qualities of our founding fathers…have failed to teach the younger generation of leaders…instead we have turned them to political thugs.” He added that a 25‑year‑old today could become a leader in 30‑35 years, and if they are not taught leadership, they will not be able to provide it to the next generation.
“Some of us have chosen to remain in the PDP despite the fact that it’s not in a perfect shape at the moment due to our ideological conviction,” Makarfi said, urging youths to “teach out to their peers from the other parts of the country so that they imbibe some of those qualities of leadership.”
Dr. Suleiman Abba, former Inspector‑General of Police and PDP senatorial candidate for Jigawa Southwest, praised the lecture as a vision for the next generation. He said the event would “definitely inspire some of them who are hoping to aspire for the leadership position, especially during the forthcoming general elections.”
Both former governors called for youths to imbibe tolerance, perseverance and respect for the ideals laid down by the country’s founding fathers, stressing that active participation is essential for Nigeria’s future.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
