Nigeria @ 66: OOPA Advocates Youth-Centred Development, Responsible Digital Journalism

By Tosin Olasunkanmi, Osogbo

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary, the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA) has called for greater investment in young Nigerians, responsible digital journalism, national unity and collective efforts towards sustainable development.

In an Independence Day message signed by its Chairman, Comrade Abioye Tosin Lawrence, and Public Relations Officer, Babatunde Raji, OOPA congratulated President Bola Tinubu, governors, political and traditional leaders, professionals, young Nigerians and citizens across the country.

The association said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence and the collective responsibility required to build a more prosperous and inclusive nation.

OOPA said a nation could only achieve sustainable progress by investing in its young people, listening to their aspirations and creating opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to national development.

The association also acknowledged the contributions of past and present leaders whose service, it said, had contributed to Nigeria’s development and its continued relevance on the African continent and globally.

Looking ahead, OOPA urged stakeholders to deliberately empower and encourage a new generation of Nigerians who are creating businesses, developing innovative solutions, advancing knowledge and contributing to the growth of the country.

On the role of the media, the association reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism, saying digital publishers had a duty to provide credible information, combat fake news and misinformation, and promote public confidence in the media.

It called for sustained attention to infrastructure and road networks, meaningful employment opportunities for skilled Nigerians, and an environment where young people could pursue their aspirations without being compelled to seek opportunities outside the country.

OOPA also advocated a Nigeria where citizens could take pride in their national identity and passport, while those who had travelled abroad in search of opportunities could eventually return and contribute to national development.

The association stressed that building the Nigeria of the future should not be left to government alone, noting that citizens, leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, young people, the media and other stakeholders all had roles to play.

“Everyone who loves Nigeria should begin to speak about her prosperity, believe in her possibilities and contribute to building the nation we desire,” the association said.

OOPA, while reaffirming its commitment to responsible digital journalism and national development, urged Nigerians to focus not only on the country’s challenges but also on its resilience, creativity and enormous potential.

The association prayed for continued peace and unity in Nigeria, Osun State and the South-West region, while wishing Nigerians a happy Independence anniversary.