A former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called on Nigerian youths to realign their mindset toward self-development and a strong sense of nationalism. 

He emphasised the need for young people to cultivate a proactive approach to addressing societal challenges and to take ownership of their personal growth, especially in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving socioeconomic climate. 

Shaibu gave this charge during a keynote address at the Akwa Ibom State University Alumni Association’s Leadership and Entrepreneurship Summit held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In his remarks on the theme “Igniting Leadership and Entrepreneurial Excellence: Alumni as a Catalyst,” the former deputy governor and past President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) urged students to think beyond traditional academics and job-seeking. 

He encouraged them to pursue entrepreneurial skills and adopt a mindset geared towards creating value, not merely awaiting employment. 

According to him, education should be seen as a foundational tool, rather than a final destination, adding that entrepreneurship and skill acquisition break down economic limitations and empower individuals to take control of their futures.

Shaibu underscored that professional development begins within the walls of the university, but must stretch into real-world application for true impact. 

He warned against relying solely on formal employment, describing the job-seeking mentality as one that hands over the reins of one’s future to others. 

While affirming the irreplaceable value of formal education, he stressed that its true power lies in how students apply it to create economic and professional success on their own terms.

Reflecting on his own academic journey at the University of Jos, where he studied Accounting and served as NANS President, Shaibu recounted his early ambitions and how real-world experience soon revealed that academic credentials alone were not enough. 

He noted that certificates represent effort and discipline, but are merely starting points in the broader journey of building impactful careers. 

His message to the students was clear: success lies in combining knowledge with practical action, innovation, and the drive to solve real-world problems.

Addressing attendees at the summit, which took place at the University’s main complex, Shaibu urged young Nigerians to look beyond the limitations of fixed salary structures and to chart independent courses that would lead to secure and self-sustained futures. 

He also encouraged students to acquire foundational skills necessary for leadership and entrepreneurship and to become sources of opportunity for others, not just themselves.

Shaibu commended the Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Professor Nse Essien, for his role in fostering growth and maintaining a peaceful academic environment. 

He praised the leadership of the university’s Alumni Association, led by Comrade Nwanfor Michael, and the Student Union Government for their transformative contributions to the student community.

The event featured the presentation of a leadership excellence award to Shaibu by the Alumni Association, in recognition of his outstanding contributions. 

This was followed by the groundbreaking ceremony of the Akwa Ibom State University Alumni Secretariat and Skill Acquisition Centre, which he officially performed. 

Additional projects unveiled by the Alumni Association included the University Campus Transport Scheme and academic grants, all designed to enhance the welfare and development of students on campus