Senator Yar’adua Calls for Patriotism to Curb Nigeria’s Brain Drain Crisis

Published By Jerry Adesewo On Mar 14, 2025

Senator Yar’adua Calls for Patriotism to Curb Nigeria’s Brain Drain Crisis

Jerry Adesewo

In an impassioned plea to Nigeria’s younger generation, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, representing Katsina Central Senatorial Constituency, has called for renewed patriotism and unity to address the alarming rate of brain drain affecting the nation. The Senator stressed the need for Nigerians to work collectively in building a nation that future generations can be proud of.

Senator Yar’adua, a retired military officer and the current Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, expressed deep concern over the increasing migration of skilled Nigerians, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, and education. He described this mass exodus as a major obstacle to national development and called on the youth to stay committed to Nigeria’s progress.

“My appeal to Nigerians, especially the youth, is simple: be patriotic. Love Nigeria first because we have no other country,” he urged. “The global trend is shifting, with nations tightening immigration policies and cutting down on foreign aid. We must look inward and build our nation instead of depending on external solutions.”

The Senator cited Rwanda’s remarkable transformation as an example of what national unity and determination can achieve. He highlighted the country’s rapid economic progress following the devastating 1994 genocide and credited Rwandans with putting aside ethnic and political differences to rebuild their nation.

“We need to take a cue from Rwanda,” he said. “They went through unimaginable hardships, yet they came together and focused on development. Today, they’re one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. We must rise above tribal and religious divisions and recognize that we are one people.”

Senator Yar’adua acknowledged that the economic struggles in Nigeria have driven many young professionals abroad in search of better opportunities. However, he maintained that the long-term solution to the country’s challenges lies in a collective commitment to national progress rather than an exodus of its brightest minds.

“We understand the frustrations—job opportunities are scarce, insecurity is a challenge, and the cost of living is high. But the answer is not abandoning the country,” he stated. “We need a mindset shift. Nigerians must take ownership of the nation’s destiny and work together to create a country where people from other nations will aspire to visit and invest in.”

He also emphasised the role of leadership in fostering an environment where young people can thrive. According to him, governance must be proactive in creating job opportunities, improving security, and ensuring that talent is retained within Nigeria. However, he stressed that true change starts with individual and collective efforts, with every Nigerian contributing to the nation’s growth.

“We must believe in Nigeria. If we do not, then who will? The responsibility to build a great nation does not rest solely on the government—it is a duty for all of us,” he said. “If we truly love this country, we will put in the effort to make it better, instead of looking for an escape route.”

Senator Yar’adua’s call for patriotism comes at a crucial time when Nigeria faces rising unemployment, economic hardship, and security challenges. His message serves as a rallying cry for unity, resilience, and a renewed sense of national identity.

With Nigeria losing some of its best and brightest to other countries, his appeal for self-reliance and national rebuilding offers a glimmer of hope for a future where young Nigerians choose to stay, build, and thrive in their homeland.

Senator Yar’adua Calls for Patriotism to Curb Nigeria’s Brain Drain Crisis