Returning with Purpose: Bishop Kukah Inspires Nigerian Youth to Develop Their Homeland

 In an inauguration lecture held on Saturday, May 27, Mathew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, delivered a powerful message to the youth of Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of returning to their homeland to contribute to its development after traveling abroad.

Bishop Kukah, known for his wisdom and compassion, highlighted that Nigerians are not suffering due to their religious affiliations but rather because they reside in a country that is not functioning effectively. Addressing the audience, he said, "I want to make it clear that the suffering of 133 million Nigerians is not determined by their religious beliefs. It is the malfunctioning state of our country that affects us all."

He further emphasized that the challenges faced by Nigeria cut across religious lines and affect people from all walks of life. "We must recognize that our suffering is not due to being Christians or Muslims; it is a result of the malfunctioning system. The challenge before us is to find ways to make our country work for everyone, regardless of their social or economic status," he explained.

Drawing from his personal experiences and encounters, Bishop Kukah expressed his optimism despite the country's struggles. He spoke of his travels around the world and the beauty he found in Nigeria, despite its imperfections. "I have traveled extensively and can confidently say that Nigeria, flawed as it may be, is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. This is not a statement made lightly," he remarked.

Recalling a moment during his studies in the United States, Bishop Kukah shared a conversation with a parish priest who offered him a green card to settle in America. Reflecting on his green Nigerian passport, he recognized the importance of Africans, like the Asians, traveling with a purpose – to gain knowledge and experiences that they could later bring back to their home country.

The Bishop mentioned two young men in America who had recently graduated from a prestigious university. When he asked them about their plans to return to Nigeria, they expressed their hesitations. They believed that without influential connections, their efforts in Nigeria would be futile. Bishop Kukah understood their concerns but challenged them to envision a Nigeria that would provide opportunities for all, regardless of their social networks.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Kukah directed his words to the Vice-President-elect and all those present, urging them to make Nigeria a country that is believable, livable, and credible. He called for collective efforts in creating an environment that inspires confidence and attracts talented individuals to return and contribute their God-given gifts.

As Bishop Kukah concluded his speech, the audience was left inspired and determined. The youth felt a renewed sense of responsibility and vowed to embark on their journeys with a purpose – to acquire knowledge and skills abroad and return to Nigeria to make a positive impact. They recognized that the transformation of their country depended on their collective efforts and the creation of an enabling environment.

And so, the words of Bishop Mathew Kukah echoed in their hearts as they set forth on their individual paths, determined to play their part in building a great nation, side by side with their fellow Nigerians.