RismadarVoice Reporters
October 23, 2026
Former House of Representatives member Sam Onuigbo has expressed concern over the erosion of societal values in Nigeria, warning that declining moral standards and inadequate mentorship are undermining efforts to prepare young people for leadership responsibilities.
Onuigbo raised the concern during an appearance on the Nigerian Television Authority’s Good Morning Nigeria, in a discussion themed “Mentorship: Nigeria Happened to Me.”
The former lawmaker argued that although initiatives exist to develop future leaders, weakening family values and the influence of negative social behaviour have affected young people’s preparation for positions of responsibility.
According to him, parents and guardians have an important role in teaching children honesty, discipline, integrity and respect for others.
He maintained that young people raised with strong moral principles are better equipped to withstand peer pressure and make responsible decisions.
Reflecting on his childhood, Onuigbo recalled how his parents, who were peasant farmers, emphasised honesty and respect for other people’s property.
He cited the example of village traders who displayed groundnuts without supervision, trusting customers to take their purchases and leave the appropriate payment.
Onuigbo described the practice as evidence of the trust, transparency and good neighbourliness he believed should be restored in society.
The former legislator also highlighted the influence of mentorship on his professional development, acknowledging the contributions of the late Dr Burian Carew and Dr Nadu Denloye.
He credited both professionals with helping develop talented Nigerians through their involvement in the country’s telecommunications engineering sector.
Onuigbo urged experienced professionals and public officials to mentor younger generations, stressing that leadership development should involve practical guidance, patience and character formation.
He referenced the Not Too Young To Run Act, which expanded opportunities for younger Nigerians to contest political offices, but argued that eligibility alone could not guarantee effective leadership.
Also contributing, former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau emphasised the importance of combining vocational training with moral and spiritual education.
Shekarau recalled initiatives during his administration that exposed young people to mentorship programmes and skills acquisition opportunities.
National Orientation Agency official David Akoji similarly advocated stronger values education, highlighting government efforts to promote the National Values Charter.
The speakers agreed that families, educational institutions, government agencies and private-sector professionals have important responsibilities in preparing young Nigerians for leadership and productive careers.
