Femi Falana, one of Nigeria’s most respected human rights lawyers, has never been afraid to speak uncomfortable truths. But his latest message isn’t aimed at the government — it’s for the youth. And it’s simple: stop waiting for the older generation to fix a country they helped break.
Speaking at a youth summit in Lagos, Falana delivered a fiery but hopeful speech that called on young Nigerians to shake off political apathy and start taking power seriously.
“Nigeria is not going to be saved by the people who ruined it,” he said. “If you’re under 35, this is your country. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.”
For decades, Nigeria’s leadership has remained in the hands of the same political elite — many of whom have held power since the military era. The result? A country rich in potential but stuck in survival mode. Falana believes this cycle can only be broken if young people stop outsourcing their power.
“You can’t just tweet change. You have to organize. Mobilize. Contest. Hold your leaders accountable. Run for office if you must — or support those who will,” he said.
Falana isn’t just giving motivational speeches — he’s giving a strategy. He challenged youth to get involved in local politics, not just presidential elections. He urged them to read budgets, question governors, vote in council elections, and demand answers.
With youth unemployment at crisis levels, inflation soaring, and education in decline, many young Nigerians are already disillusioned. Some have fled. Others have given up. Falana says that’s understandable — but dangerous.
“If you walk away, they win. If you stay silent, nothing changes. This country is yours. Reclaim it.”
His call is already resonating with many in the younger generation — the same generation that led the #EndSARS protests and organized some of the largest civic movements Nigeria has seen in recent history.
The question now is: will the youth move from protest to power?
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