By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
The First Class Muslim Foundation (FCMF) has urged Nigerian first-class graduates to resist the “japa” trend and contribute to national development through innovation and leadership.
FCMF Chairman, Dr Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, made the call on Sunday at the closing of the eighth M-First Series Workshop in Ikeja, Lagos.
The three-day programme attracted 50 first-class graduates from across Nigeria for mentorship, networking, career guidance and professional development sessions.
Ogunmuyiwa said Nigeria’s untapped economy offered significant opportunities for exceptional graduates willing to apply their talents locally.
“Having a first-class degree does not mean you can only excel outside Nigeria. Gain experience abroad if necessary, then return and contribute,” he said.
He noted that labour markets abroad were becoming increasingly competitive, making migration less attractive than many young people believed.
“Jobs are no longer readily available in Europe and elsewhere, prompting people to return home in search of opportunities,” Ogunmuyiwa stated.
He encouraged participants to explore opportunities in academia and industry, stressing that academic excellence created pathways across diverse professional sectors.
“Earning a first-class degree does not mean you are limited to lecturing. There are opportunities in both academia and industry,” he added.
The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr Ibrahim Abdul, urged participants to embrace integrity, responsibility and vision in their leadership journeys.
Former Rector of Lagos State Polytechnic, Dr Nurudeen Olaleye, challenged graduates to create opportunities rather than waiting for them to emerge.
“Opportunity does not knock. Build a door and break it open. Leverage every opportunity that comes your way,” Olaleye advised.
Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Controller at Baker Hughes, Mr Mutiu Adelu, highlighted the importance of goal alignment, adaptability and flexibility.
“Whatever is not taking you closer to your set goal is taking you farther from it. You must be flexible and adaptable,” Adelu said.
Omnicom Solutions Chief Executive Officer, Mr Faheed Olajide, advised participants to make informed decisions by gathering adequate information beforehand.
“Today is a bundle of your past decisions. Gather as much information as possible before taking any decision,” Olajide said.
KPMG Nigeria Partner, Olabimpe Afolabi, delivered a session on developing professional niches and building sustainable career pathways.
Prof. Ismail Ibraheem of the University of Lagos discussed global certification pathways and the importance of internationally recognised skills.
The Grand Mentor of the Nasir Giwa Mentorship Programme encouraged participants to remain resilient, focused and determined despite challenges.
Hearthub Solutions Founder, Mrs Bushra Bombata, addressed marriage and mental wellness, stressing intentionality in relationships and life planning.
“Know where you are going; it makes finding the path easier. Intentional care remains important in sustaining relationships,” Bombata said.
The workshop ended with a five-year presentation plan and certificate presentation by MTN Nigeria Chief Financial Officer, Mrs Modupe Kadiri.
Miss Sumayyah Sikiru, a Mass Communication graduate from Lagos State University, described the workshop as impactful and transformative.
She said the programme exposed participants to valuable lessons on leadership, clarity, personal development and identifying core competencies.
Sikiru commended the foundation for organising the free workshop and urged it to engage more specialists as mentors.
Another participant, Mr Ibrahim Ridwan, a Plant Science graduate of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, praised the programme’s practical insights.
“The workshop broadened our understanding beyond certificates. My goal is contributing through genetic engineering and advancing food security in Africa,” Ridwan said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo