The following was contributed by ASFL Local Coordinator Femi Ogunjobi

The Atlas Network in collaboration with the Students Union and African Students For Liberty (ASFL) Chapter of Obafemi Awolowo University held a Liberty and Leadership Forum in the Cooperative building of the institution on Saturday, March 7, 2015. The event targeted students and leaders from different universities and colleges to focus on best practices of students organizing, networking and exposure to strategies for expanding the frontiers of freedom across the continent. The discussion encompassed teachings on Free Market, Economy, Liberty, Leadership and Responsibility, Entrepreneurship, Freedom of Speech, and Good governance.

The over 100 participants forum commenced with opening remarks from Jude Feranmi, the institution’s group leader. He explained the liberty movement as a drive which must awaken young people in the society. He challenged African youths to imbibe the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that unlocks much potential.

SFL’s African Programs Manager, Olumayowa Okediran spoke on ‘Africa’s Hope of Liberty’. He explained that Libertarianism in Africa is a growing force, with the efforts of youngsters like himself. He noted that Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda are examples of African countries where youths are alive and charged for Liberty. He emphasized the importance of choice, the rights of minorities and the roles of young Africans in the development of the continent.

‘We, the young ones, Cheetah Generation are the ones that will change Africa. We are strong. We are impatient with corrupt and brutal governments. We insist on holding autocratic rulers to account. We applaud—and we demand—acceleration of the positive trend toward more accountable and constitutionally limited government, free markets, freedom of speech and press. We demand the responsibility and the liberty to run our own lives, to make our own choices, to pursue our own happiness.’

Okediran charged the participants not to waste their prime on frivolities, but rather equip themselves with ideas that will shape Africa and move the continent forward. He also told them to be instruments of change in their respective communities, other than to be used as errand boys by politicians.

Wale Ajetunmobi, an Editor with The Nation Newspapers discussed on Freedom of Speech in relation to the Freedom of Information Bill in Nigeria. Ajetunmobi began his session on his life experiences as a college student and how he faced and survived life threatening situations as a young reporter.

He told the participants that truth will always be opposed, and stood against, especially in societies where there are autocratic rulers, and where things are not done properly.

‘Governments and authorities don’t want to be challenged; questioned. They are your first opposition parties if you speak the truth. But, no one can take your freedom from you. Don’t sell out your freedom. Don’t joke with it. Always stand for the truth. It’s your weapon to change the world’ Ajetunmobi said.

Women should also be seen as a strong force for the liberation of the continent, and the human race, Odunola Oladejo, an Executive Board member with African Students For Liberty told the audience. She spoke on: “Women and Leadership: A Bold Step to a Great Nation’’

She said, according to the worldwide survey, conducted by Pittsburgh-based HR consulting firm, Development Dimensions International (DDI) and in a widely-cited 2012 Harvard Business Review blog post, women make up a greater share of leadership positions at more successful companies.
Oladejo explained some of the challenges faced by women in societies range from balancing family life, to sexual harassment and ill-conceived notion that women leadership positions are authoritative. She cited Chimamanda Adichie, Obiageli Ezekwesili, Tara Fela-Durotoye, among others as examples of women that are making difference in their world.

‘We need to encourage, support ourselves, accept open opportunities given, and not see ourselves as losers, even before the chance comes.’, Odunola explained.
Dr. Adeniran Adebusuyi, a lecturer at the Sociology department of the institution delivered on: ‘Economic Freedom and Africa’s Development’ He educated the audience on how economic freedom is a determinant for human development.
According to him, ‘regional economic communities are meant to be building blocks for continental integration, and added that government restrictions threaten meaningful development. Also at the event, there was discursive panel that featured SFL’s Africa Programs Associate , Emeka Ezeugo, and Oluleke Peter, a
Senior Local Coordinator with ASFL. The duo shared insights on Leadership and Role of Youths in advancing the cause of liberty.

Ajibola Adigun, a writer with Young Voices spoke on “Libertarianism in Africa”. He explained how Free markets and open borders have been in existence in Africa before colonial times, and how Capitalism is improving the lives of people, and helping to build robust and effective economies around the world.

The event rounded off with Photo sessions and free distribution of ‘Why Liberty’ , ‘Peace, Love and Liberty’ , and other resources to participants.