The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said Nigeria’s long-term future will be defined by how united its people remain, the depth of its institutional reforms and the strength of its renewed national spirit.
A statement from Tunji-Ojo’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Babatunde Alao, said the minister made the remarks on Friday night at the Oduduwa Hall of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where he received an Award of Excellence in Public Service from the university.
Tunji-Ojo described the honour as more than a personal milestone, saying it symbolised a broader national journey and reinforced his belief that the country is steadily making progress despite persistent challenges.
According to him, the idea of national renewal has moved beyond hopeful rhetoric and is now a living process sustained by courage, faith and collective responsibility.
“Let me affirm what I believe with all my heart, ‘Nigeria is Rising’, not because our challenges have disappeared, but because our resolve is stronger than ever,” the minister said.
“Not because the path is smooth, but because our collective will refuses to bend, hence this award encourages us to continue on the path of national renewal with renewed faith, courage and hope.
“I remain convinced that Nigeria is moving steadily towards a stronger, more resilient future.”
He used the occasion to reflect on reforms introduced since he assumed office in 2023, pointing to changes within the Nigeria Immigration Service as key milestones. He said the automation of passport applications and the clearance of long-standing backlogs had strengthened border management and improved service delivery.
Turning to the students in attendance, Tunji-Ojo said Nigerian youths remained the country’s most valuable asset and the true custodians of its future.
“You are the keepers of the future. Your ideas, courage, conviction and curiosity will determine the direction of our nation,” the minister said.
He urged the students not to allow present economic and social pressures to cloud their dreams for the country, while referencing Nelson Mandela’s belief that education remains the most powerful weapon for meaningful change.
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