By Ayodele Taofiq-Fanida
In a world where opinions fluctuate between truths and falsehoods, where praise and criticism often collide, Dayo Israel stands as a beacon of consistency, competence, and unwavering determination for development and progress. As the debate about his suitability for the role of Minister of Youth continues, it is imperative to consider the undeniable impact he has made over the last two and a half decades in Nigeria and across the globe.
Amidst the series of voices both for and against Dayo’s qualification for the role, it is essential to separate rhetoric from reality, to sift through the myriad claims and counterclaims that surround his persona. What emerges is a picture of a man whose journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, underpinned by an unyielding dedication to competence and self-drive for change and development.
A close examination of Dayo’s trajectory reveals a narrative that is neither ordinary nor accidental. It is a narrative woven with threads of commitment, diligence and a genuine concern for the betterment of young people in Nigeria and beyond. Dayo started one of the most formidable child organisations in Nigeria – General Action Against the Violation of Human and Children’s Rights – at only the age of nine, spearheading the campaign for the promotion of children’s rights in Africa’s most populous country. He represented Nigeria at various United Nations and other global meetings, was the pioneer chairman of the ‘I See Hope’ project by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and literally brought the world to Nigeria 19 years ago, championing the rights and places for young people.
Transitioning into politics, Dayo has also touched lives within his community of Ebute Metta, as well as across Lagos State and Nigeria. As a board member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), his influence played a pivotal role in rallying the team to achieve positive outcomes in the educational sector in Lagos State. Through unwavering dedication and consistent effort, he effectively demonstrated that positive outcomes emerge from persistence and unwavering commitment. Such achievements are not haphazard; rather, they stem from an unyielding pursuit of excellence.
From my perspective, Dayo undoubtedly qualifies for the role of Minister of Youth. His extensive track record on both national and global stage stands as evidence of his capacity to bring about substantial change. This journey of impactful service was undoubtedly propelled by a solid foundation of competence and an unwavering determination to push boundaries.
Rather than succumbing to criticism, it is more prudent to throw support behind Dayo and observe as he tackles the challenges young people in the country face. The crucial question now should not be why Dayo, but rather, what can Dayo offer the Nigerian youth? How can he harness his expertise and dedication to uplift millions of underprivileged Nigerian youth? How can he further bolster President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope mandate with his adept skills, extensive network, and strong leadership acumen, collaborating with fellow ministers to translate the much-needed transformation for Nigerian youth into reality, even within the current critical state of the nation and the global landscape?
The potential of Dayo to leverage his position’s influence for the betterment of youth is immeasurable. Armed with a strategic vision and pragmatic solutions, he possesses the ability to seize opportunities, make courageous decisions, and amplify the impact of even the most limited resources. His capacity to formulate a comprehensive national Youth agenda, infused with the dynamism of innovation and technology, holds the promise of ensuring that intervention programmes deeply penetrate the most marginalised sectors of our society.
In the grand tapestry of Nigeria’s future, the youth represent the brightest colors, the most vibrant threads. A leader at the helm of the Ministry of Youth should be a youth, visionary, and champion who not only envisions a brighter tomorrow but actively empowers the youth to paint that canvas themselves. Dayo, with his proven track record and undying commitment, is that champion.
As the debate aggravates, it is essential to remember that the Dayo I know is not a mere individual; he symbolises hope, a conduit for change, and a catalyst for a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth. Let us not be swayed by the rhetoric of divisiveness, but instead, stand united in support of a man who possesses the potential to transform lives and shape destinies. The Dayo that I know is a force to be reckoned with, a force that can steer Nigeria’s youth towards a horizon brimming with promise and prosperity.
Ayodele Taofiq-Fanida is a development practitioner, a media-for-development expert, and a climate change advocate.
