Peter Obi challenges Nigerian youth to take active responsibility for the country’s future by embracing leadership, good governance, and active citizenship.Speaking as the special guest and keynote speaker at the opening ceremony of the 10th session of the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN 2026) in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, the former Anambra State Governor urged over 500 African youth delegates to become driving forces behind regional peace and sustainable development.
What were Peter Obi’s key messages to delegates at Babcock’s BIMUN 2026?
The landmark 10th edition of BIMUN, themed “Better Together: A Decade of BIMUN Advancing the United Nations’ Vision for Peace, Development, and Human Rights,” marked ten years of youth diplomacy and leadership training at Babcock University. Prior to delivering his address, Obi met with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Afolarin Ojewole and university management to discuss the strategic role of tertiary education in nation-building.In his main address, Obi stressed that character-driven leadership, accountability, and meritocracy are essential to creating a functional society.He urged students to prepare themselves for public service rooted in competence and integrity rather than relying on political connections.
The conference also featured opening remarks from the United Nations Resident Coordinator representative, Mrs. Kehinde Osotimehin, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, who both emphasized dialogue, empathy, and collaborative problem-solving.Obi commended Babcock University for consistently providing a platform that equips young people with diplomatic and negotiation skills. He encouraged participants to translate Model UN debates into practical civic action that addresses human rights abuses, economic inequality, and governance deficits across Africa.
- Participation as special guest and keynote speaker at the 10th anniversary session of BIMUN in Ogun State.
- Direct call for Nigerian youth to champion accountable leadership, meritocracy, and active civic participation.
- Executive dialogue with Babcock University leadership regarding education’s role in sustainable development.
- Emphasis on transforming diplomatic simulations into real-world solutions for regional stability and human rights.
“We must strive to build a society where the child of a nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody. Only strong institutions and character-driven leadership can deliver such a nation.”
Delegates at the five-day BIMUN conference will continue simulating proceedings of major United Nations organs, deliberating on climate action, international security, and human rights.Meanwhile, educational advocates have hailed the landmark anniversary as a model for youth empowerment in West Africa. As political and social conversations intensify across Nigeria, youth engagement remains a central focus for national transformation. Will African youth heed the call to actively participate in shaping democratic governance ahead of future electoral cycles
