On June 30, 2025, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, held the Al-Hikmah Hijrah Lecture 1447/2025 in honour of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Noah Yusuf, FSPSP. The significant event took place at the university auditorium, Adeta campus, drawing key figures from academia, government, and the university community to reflect on the intersection of education, youth, and national development.
The public lecture was organised by the Centre for Islamic Heritage, with the Acting Director, Dr. Nafiu Ahmad Arikewuyo, serving as the host. The central theme of the event, **“Education, Youths and Nigeria’s Future: Any Hope?”**, formed the basis of a compelling and thought-provoking conversation on the current realities and the future prospects of the Nigerian education system and its youth.
Chairing the occasion was the Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University, Malete, Professor Shaykh Luqman Alade Jimoh, who underscored the importance of academic platforms like this in shaping policy discourse and community engagement.
The keynote lecture was delivered by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal O. Olohungbebe. Addressing the central theme with depth and clarity, Dr. Olohungbebe offered a thorough analysis of the Nigerian educational landscape. He explored both the challenges—referred to as the “dark side”—and the opportunities—the “bright side”—facing young people in today’s Nigeria. His lecture provided a balanced and realistic assessment of the state of education and youth empowerment in the country.
In his presentation, Dr. Olohungbebe referenced the Youth Development Index to support his arguments and used it as a tool to evaluate national performance in key areas of youth engagement and capacity-building. He highlighted the collective responsibility of government, corporate organisations, and young individuals in shaping the country’s future. According to him, everyone has a role to play in promoting education and national progress.
Dr. Olohungbebe also made brief but significant references to historical figures who contributed to the Hijrah, such as Sayyiduna Ali, Bilaal, and Aisha—emphasising their youthful ages at the time and the crucial roles they played in early Islamic history. These examples, he noted, show the powerful potential of young people when given the right guidance and opportunities.
The Commissioner extended sincere appreciation to Professor Noah Yusuf, the Centre for Islamic Heritage, University Orator Mr. Sanusi Lafiagi, university management, faculty, and students for the warm reception and high level of participation at the lecture.
He concluded his address by stressing the ongoing relevance of youth and education in the development of Nigeria. He urged students to look beyond certificates and acquire practical, marketable skills that would enable them to thrive independently in a competitive world.
“The journey continues. Education and youth development must remain a national priority,” Dr. Olohungbebe declared, leaving the audience with a resonant call to action.
