In a recent event in Abuja, Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, encouraged the youth to value guidance from their elders as a way to combat corruption. Speaking at a workshop organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), she highlighted that the journey to reduce corruption starts at home, where parents, especially mothers, play a vital role.
She said: “We must move beyond the desire to have our voices heard and step into roles where our actions are impactful. Let us take a moment to reflect on the words of our elders: ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. In the same vein, it takes the collective will of the entire nation to defeat corruption”.
Mrs. Tinubu stressed that mothers are uniquely positioned to nurture integrity and moral values in children, which are essential for a society free from corruption. According to her, the responsibility of preventing corruption should involve everyone but must start with family influence, as home values are crucial in shaping future generations.
Mrs Tinubu said: “This menace is seen in every sector, from the trader in the market, to the private sector, government agencies, the judiciary and even in places of worship to mention a few and age is no barrier. It is for all of us and for the future of our beloved country, that we must remain resolute in our efforts to combat this scourge. We cannot leave this battle to government agencies alone.
“It is time for us to take our place as mothers, grandmothers, aunties, sisters, leaders and reformers to do the needful. Women are nurturers but recently, we have left our children to raise themselves with the excuse of providing a better life for them.”
ICPC chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu supported this view, noting that the commission is actively working to include all critical groups—especially mothers, youth, and community stakeholders—in its efforts to tackle corruption.
The event saw messages from various representatives, including those from the youth, the Code of Conduct Bureau, JAMB, and security agencies, all aligning on the importance of family and community support in preventing corruption. JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, noted that mothers have a unique role in ensuring honesty is a core value among young people. Kogi State’s Commissioner for Youth added that students should focus on active participation in societal change rather than protests.
This call to action highlights the need for family support, elders’ guidance, and especially the nurturing influence of mothers in developing a society where integrity is a norm. By valuing the wisdom of elders, Nigerian youth can contribute positively to a future free from corruption.
