Oguntola Urges Nigerians to Make a Difference Wherever They Find Themselves

A former Justice of the Customary Court of Appeal, George Oguntola, has urged Nigerians to make a positive difference wherever they find themselves, saying individual responsibility is important to the transformation of the country.

Oguntola made the call on Thursday, October 1, 2026, during a symposium organised by the International Friendship League (IFL), Ogun West Chapter, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day.

The symposium, held at Landmark Multipurpose Hall, Joju/Akindener Junction, Ota, Ogun State, was themed “Nigeria @ 66: A Call to Citizenship Transformation,” with the symposium topic, “Transformed Citizens, Transformed Nation.”

Speaking during the discussion, Oguntola reflected on the struggles associated with freedom in different parts of the world and stressed that meaningful change requires responsibility and commitment from individuals and institutions.

She said people often ask why there is little change despite their religious practices and other efforts, adding that institutions and government also have roles to play in bringing about positive transformation.

During the discussion, an audience member asked whether her reference to the struggles for freedom meant Nigerians should resort to war or take up weapons.

Oguntola rejected the suggestion, repeatedly stating that Nigerians could not go to war, before returning the discussion to the importance of moral responsibility.

Using an experience at a hospital as an example, she explained how one person within an institution helped her after she initially experienced difficulty receiving attention.

She said the experience showed that individuals could make a difference within whatever institution or environment they found themselves.

Oguntola therefore urged Nigerians to contribute positively to their communities and institutions, emphasising that transformation can begin with individual actions.