Interior minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has charged Nigerian youths not to allow the hardships of today blur their vision of the Nigeria they want to build.

The minister gave the advice when he received the Award of Excellence in Public Service conferred on him by the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, on Friday, according to a statement.

Mr Tunji-Ojo said, “You are the keepers of the future. Your ideas, courage, conviction and curiosity will determine the direction of our nation.”

According to him, Nigeria’s future will be shaped by the level of unity, institutional reform and renewed national spirit embodied by its citizens.

He said that the award carried a weight far beyond personal recognition, adding that it reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria is “rising” on the strength of its collective resolve.

The minister reiterated that national renewal was no longer an aspiration but a journey strengthened by courage, faith and shared 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,” Mr Tunji-Ojo stated. “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 commended President Bola Tinubu for providing the framework for institutional transformation through the Renewed Hope Agenda. He described the president’s vision as a mandate for efficiency, compassion and national confidence.

Mr Tunji-Ojo dedicated the award to young Nigerians, civil servants, his family, and to Mr Tinubu, whose commitment to reforms continues to energise national renewal. He further expressed gratitude to OAU leadership for upholding a tradition of intellectual integrity and national service.

He used the platform to reflect on key reforms he has undertaken since assuming office in 2023.

Mr Tunji-Ojo reiterated that the automation of passport processes and backlog clearance has improved border management and enhanced professionalism in the Nigeria Immigration Service.

(NAN)