In a renewed push to cultivate responsible citizenship and leadership among Nigerian youths, LIFT Nigeria, a frontline leadership development organisation, has successfully hosted the launch of CIVITAS in Agbor, bringing together students, teachers, community leaders, and key stakeholders in a shared commitment to nation-building.
The launch, themed “Igniting a New Generation of Civic Leadership in Nigeria,” underscored the urgent need to inspire young people to become active participants in shaping their communities and the broader Nigerian society.
CIVITAS ~ Identity, Agency, and Stewardship is a youth-focused programme aimed at empowering secondary school students with the consciousness, competence, and character required to drive positive change. The initiative seeks to instill a deep sense of responsibility, encouraging students to take ownership of their communities while contributing meaningfully to national development.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ebere Morgan, Convener of CIVITAS Nigeria, described the initiative as a transformative movement rather than a conventional programme. He stressed that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the ability of young people to embrace civic responsibility and leadership.
According to the American based professor and a medical practitioner, Dr. Ebere Morgan said CIVITAS is more than just a programme; it is a movement to reclaim our identity, assert our agency, and practice responsible stewardship.
“We believe strongly that young people possess the power to shape the future of Nigeria, and we are committed to equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to excel as civic leaders.”
Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Alex Okondugha, the guest speaker commended the organisers for introducing an initiative that aligns with ongoing efforts to empower young Nigerians. Delivering a keynote presentation titled “The Way Forward for Nigeria,” he challenged participants to rise above passive citizenship and embrace a proactive role in rebuilding the nation.
Fr. Okondugha said CIVITAS is Raising a generation that will not merely inherit Nigeria but rebuild it.” he said. “The answers to the problems of today and tomorrow are now. CIVITAS is here to help you discover both your responsibility and your ability.”
Earlier, the coordinator CIVITAS Nigeria, Mr Anthony Monye in his welcome address said that the programme is very imperative as it is an investment in the future of our young ones as well as the future of our society.
According to him, through the lessons, discussion and experience, you will gain knowledge, confidence and a deeper understanding of the role you can play in building a better world.
Speaking further Mr Anthony said leadership is not simply about holding a position or title, rather true leadership begins with character, integrity, discipline, compassion, and a genuine desire to serve others. Today’s Nigeria need people who are willing to think differently, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
He encouraged the participants to not to wait until old age before you begin to lead. Start now and lead through your character, discipline, kindness, and your commitment to excellence. He advised that this program will be the beginning of a journey where you choose to become the kind of leader our society truly needs.
He said the future is not something anyone wait for, it is something we prepare for and build.The successful launch of CIVITAS in Agbor marks a significant milestone in LIFT Nigeria’s broader mission to deepen civic engagement and leadership culture across the country. Organisers revealed plans to expand the initiative before the end of the year, with additional rollouts scheduled for December.
The event concluded on a high note with a strong call to action. Students, teachers, and other participants pledged to take the knowledge and values gained back to their respective schools and communities, committing themselves to driving positive change and sustaining the ideals of civic leadership.
