BIMUN 2026: Babcock VC Urges Youth to Champion Peace, Sustainable Development

Young people must embrace visionary and selfless leadership to tackle global challenges, according to Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University. He urged them to take greater responsibility for advancing peace, sustainable development, and protecting human rights.

Ojewole spoke at the opening of the 10th Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN), themed ‘Better Together: A Decade of BIMUN Advancing the United Nation’s Vision for Peace, Development and Human Rights’. The event convened over 450 delegates from 22 countries, including aspiring diplomats, student leaders, and development advocates, to discuss global issues and hone their leadership, negotiation, and diplomacy skills.

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Every generation has its defining moments. I believe this is yours. Build bridges where others erect barriers. Leadership is not measured by the volume of one’s voice, but by the quality of vision, strength of character, and willingness to serve.

Describing BIMUN as a crucial platform for peace-building and sustainable development, Ojewole encouraged participants to become leaders of integrity. "Every generation has its defining moments. I believe this is yours. Build bridges where others erect barriers. Leadership is not measured by the volume of one’s voice, but by the quality of vision, strength of character, and willingness to serve," he stated.

Kehinde Osotimehin, Peace and Development Officer representing the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, stressed that pressing global issues like conflict, climate change, inequality, and poverty require collective action. She reminded delegates they are already leaders capable of driving change and encouraged them to apply dialogue, inclusion, and mutual respect in their communities. Citing UN Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, Osotimehin emphasized the vital role of young people in fostering peace, noting that the UN has supported BIMUN for a decade.

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The future of peace will be shaped here at Babcock by young people who choose cooperation over conflict. Argue with passion. Negotiate with respect. The true measure of diplomacy is not who wins the debate, but what the world gains from it.