National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) VC Urges Youth to Lead the Fight Against Corruption

The Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Olufemi Peters, has called on Nigerian youth to take a decisive stand against corruption, emphasizing their role in building a future founded on integrity and transparency.

Professor Peters made the appeal on Monday, December 9, 2024, during the flag-off of an Anti-Corruption Campaign to mark the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day. The event, themed "Uniting with Youth against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity," was organized by NOUN’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) at the university’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

Describing corruption as a "pandemic" that erodes trust, compromises justice, and hinders sustainable development, Peters highlighted the pivotal role of youth in dismantling corrupt systems.

“Youth represent more than half of the world’s population. You are the energy, the ideas, the voices, and the drivers of change that can dismantle systems of corruption and build a future rooted in integrity and transparency,” he said.

He further urged young people to leverage their technological skills to expose corruption, demand accountability, and mobilize for change. “Throughout history, young people have led movements that reshaped societies. Today, your voices are just as powerful in the fight against corruption,” he added.

Peters encouraged youth to educate themselves about integrity, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and champion ethical leadership in their communities. He emphasized the importance of a multigenerational approach to combating corruption, blending the energy of youth with the wisdom of experienced leaders.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Doris C-L Ezenwa, Head of ACTU, praised the NOUN leadership for its commitment to ethical governance, citing initiatives to streamline processes, ensure fairness, and promote integrity within the institution.

She urged youth to actively engage in promoting transparency and ethical values, noting that corruption denies access to quality education and fair opportunities. “The fight against corruption is a collective journey. Each act of integrity brings us closer to a society where corruption is unthinkable,” Ezenwa said.

The event included anti-corruption sensitization activities, a health walk, and free medical checkups for staff, reinforcing NOUN's dedication to fostering accountability and ethical practices.