Students at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) received a powerful call to embrace resilience, cultural identity and purposeful leadership as PIVOT Nigeria hosted its flagship university engagement at the institution’s iconic Madhouse on Wednesday.
The event, organised by High Stakes PR under its PIVOT Nigeria initiative, brought together students, academics, media professionals and creatives for conversations centred on storytelling, entrepreneurship and nation-building.
Designed to promote positive narratives about Nigeria and Africa, the programme encouraged young people to see themselves as creators of opportunities rather than passive observers of the country’s challenges.
Convener Challenges Students to Build Solutions
Opening the event, the Convener of PIVOT Nigeria urged students to adopt a mindset built on resilience, innovation and responsibility.
She challenged participants to stop waiting for ideal conditions before pursuing their goals, stressing that Nigeria’s challenges should inspire solutions instead of discouragement.
“Resilience is not just surviving the storm; it is learning how to dance in the rain while building a shelter for others,” she said.
She encouraged students to focus on solving real problems, noting that practical judgment has become more valuable than academic qualifications alone.
“Your degree is a key, but it does not open every door. The modern economy pays for judgment, not just knowledge. Can you solve a problem no one else is willing to touch? Can you look at a crisis and see an opportunity? That is the premium you must develop.”
The convener also challenged young Nigerians to become active storytellers who shape the country’s future instead of relying on narratives created elsewhere.
“PIVOT is not just about telling positive stories; it is about shaping the minds that will write the next chapters of this nation. We are tired of being consumers of narratives created abroad. We must become the authors of our own reality—rooted in our culture, but fluent in global business.”
She concluded by urging students to pursue impact over employment.
“Do not leave here just looking for a job. Leave here looking for a problem to solve. When you solve a problem at scale, the job, the money and the recognition will chase you. Be bold, be creative and, above all, be intentional.”
Goge Africa Founders Share Their Journey
The evening’s highlight was a fireside conversation featuring Goge Africa founders Isaac Moses and Nneka Isaac-Moses, who shared the story behind one of Africa’s most recognised cultural television brands.
The couple reflected on how their shared passion for promoting African culture evolved into a platform dedicated to showcasing the continent’s heritage to global audiences.
They spoke openly about the early obstacles they encountered, the scepticism they faced and the determination that kept them moving forward.
According to the founders, their success came from remaining authentic and believing that Africans should tell their own stories with confidence and accuracy.
Students Encouraged to Build Communities
During the conversation, the Goge Africa founders encouraged students to develop their voices and contribute meaningfully to society.
“Your mouth is your microphone, and your life is your broadcast. Do not let anyone silence your unique perspective. The world is tired of generic—it craves authentic. Speak up, even if your voice shakes.”
They also stressed the importance of building lasting relationships rather than pursuing success alone.
“We did not build Goge Africa alone. We built communities—of viewers, of partners, of believers. A community will carry you further than any individual talent ever will. Invest in people.”
The couple further urged students to uphold strong personal values, describing integrity, punctuality and excellence as essential qualities for long-term success.
“Good citizens are not defined by their passports, but by their character. Cultivate standards that differentiate you. Be punctual, be honest, be excellent. These values are not old-fashioned; they are the currency of trust, and trust is the ultimate currency in business.”
UNILAG Dean Commends the Initiative
The Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Lagos, Professor Sunday Oloruntola Abraham, praised PIVOT Nigeria and High Stakes PR for connecting students with practical industry experience.
He said initiatives like the event help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the realities of today’s media and communication landscape.
Professor Abraham encouraged students to apply the lessons shared during the programme, noting that the future belongs to individuals who can tell meaningful stories that inspire change.
“The future belongs to those who can tell stories that heal, connect and elevate. PIVOT has shown you the template; it is now up to you to run with it.”
A Call to Shape Nigeria’s Future
The event ended with renewed optimism among participants, many of whom left inspired to rethink their roles as future leaders, entrepreneurs and storytellers.
By bringing together industry leaders, cultural icons and academic voices, PIVOT Nigeria reinforced its mission of promoting positive narratives while equipping young Nigerians with practical tools for success.
The programme also highlighted the growing importance of culture, storytelling and innovation in shaping Nigeria’s future.
For the students in attendance, the message was unmistakable: stop waiting for opportunities to appear. Instead, create solutions, build communities and tell stories that reflect the best of Nigeria.
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