By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Nigerian youths have been urged to lead the charge in promoting accountability and transparency in governance, emphasizing their civic responsibility during a recent youth conference in Jos, Plateau State.
Organized by The Mentor’s Guide in collaboration with the Usman Zumunta Musa Foundation and the Safer World Foundation, the event focused on self-leadership, transparency, and citizen participation.
The conference, themed: “Accountability in the Governance Space,” brought together young leaders to discuss essential principles for a responsible society.
In his opening address, Dr. Fabong Jemchang Yildam, the convener, underscored the vital role of personal accountability in governance.
He stated, “This year’s conference is about accountability in governance, our collective responsibility. For every position of authority, it’s a position of responsibility. Many times, we call our leaders names and argue endlessly on social media. The space has become so toxic with all forms of animosities.”
Dr. Yildam further questioned the youth on how they could streamline discussions and demand accountability—first from themselves, then from their leaders.
“It’s important that we demand transparency and accountability, but this must start with us as individuals. Only then can we engage meaningfully with the governance process.”
Additionally, he called for unity among citizens in Plateau State, urging them to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides. “We need to talk, irrespective of our tribal or religious affiliations, and learn how to respectfully ask our leaders to do what is expected of them,” he stated.
Also, Hon. Daniel Asama, a National Assembly member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency and chairman of the occasion, highlighted the critical role of youth leadership in tackling the country’s challenges. He described today’s youth as holding “the key to Nigeria’s future,” stressing that collective action is essential for national progress.
He remarked, “To solve any problem, we must first identify it clearly, then work collaboratively toward sustainable solutions. How do you behave when no one is watching? Are you the citizen who stops at a red light or the one who cuts corners while blaming the government?”
Delivering the keynote address, Most Reverend Dr. Benjamin Argak Kwashi underscored the critical roles of leadership and accountability in societal progress. Reflecting on historical figures such as Wilberforce and General Yakubu Gowon, he highlighted their integrity and commitment to service despite personal hardships.
“Leadership is not about personal advancement but about making sacrifices and taking responsibility for the well-being of others,” he noted, emphasizing that accountability should extend beyond politics to families and schools.
Pastor Bamshak Bigwan, a leadership advisor and guest speaker, discussed “Self-Leadership: The Compass Through Tough Times.” He asserted that poor leadership and a lack of self-discipline contribute to Nigeria’s problems. “If you cannot lead yourself, you cannot lead others,” he warned, urging youth to abandon entitlement and take responsibility.
In his session titled “Mindset Transformation for Accountability,” life coach Ndubuisi Onyema emphasized the transformative power of mindset in shaping outcomes. He urged Nigerian youth to understand that real change begins with a shift in perspective.
“Life is a series of choices, each with its consequences. While we may not control these outcomes, we have the power to make different choices leading to improved results,” Onyema noted.
He further encouraged participants to unlock their creative potential, asserting that every problem carries the seed of a solution and often presents a business opportunity. “By changing your perspective on challenges, you can begin to devise solutions,” he stated
The conference also included a valuable session on utilizing digital tools to enhance accountability, led by Daser David, President/CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute. David illustrated how technology can be a transformative asset in governance by bridging the divide between citizens and their leaders.
“With the appropriate digital tools, we can oversee public projects, boost civic engagement, and hold leaders accountable,” he explained, highlighting the necessity of digital literacy among the youth as a critical skill for fostering transparency and societal progress.
The event featured interactive engagement sessions and a collective call to action, inspiring participants to play an active role in promoting transparency and development within their communities.
