The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has concluded the seventh edition of the Mu’azzam Ibrahim Institute of Philosophy, Political Theory and Critical Thinking, a three-day programme aimed at reviving intellectual inquiry among young Nigerians.
Speaking at the closing session, the Executive Director of CITAD, Malam Y. Z. Ya’u, said the institute, established seven years ago, was conceived to address what he described as a gradual decline in the quality of philosophy and political theory education in the country.
He said the weakening of these fields had affected the ability of young people to engage in deeper reflection and analytical reasoning.
“We discovered a growing need for a platform where young people can engage with philosophical and critical questions,” he said. “Many young people are losing the capacity to ask questions, and we are concerned that the frontiers of knowledge are shrinking because there are fewer spaces for engaging with unanswered questions.”
A mentor at the institute, Malam Ibrahim Mu’azzam, a philosopher and former lecturer in the Department of Political Science, Bayero University, Kano, said questioning remained central to human understanding.
He urged the participants to challenge mental laziness and the societal aversion to probing ideas.
“Young people must clear the fog in their heads,” he said. “People should continue questioning themselves about how humans betray many things, from their values to their society. Philosophy and critical thinking illuminate the path of inquiry, helping us reflect deeply on ethics, truth and the human condition.”
Mu’azzam added that the institute was designed to help youths cultivate clarity of thought, open-mindedness and empathy toward differing viewpoints.
On his part, Professor Ibrahim Bello Kano of the Department of English and European Languages, Bayero University, Kano, said critical thinking and reading remained essential tools for young people navigating today’s complex world.
“Critical thinking sharpens their ability to analyze information, question assumptions and make informed decisions,” he said. “Reading enhances comprehension, expands knowledge and cultivates empathy by exposing young people to diverse perspectives and ideas.”
A participant, Aliyu Umar Aliyu of the Federal University Gashua, Yobe State, who spoke on behalf of others, appreciated CITAD for sustaining what he described as a rare platform for intellectual development.
“We appreciate the organisers for giving us this opportunity,” he said.
The programme, held from Tuesday to Thursday, had 30 participants, all of whom received certificates of attendance.