Nigerians all over the world are leading and achieving great successes in all walks of life. They can be found thriving and excelling yet the homeland still requires much support to open up similar opportunities for everyone at home. People around the world acknowledge the significant role Nigeria plays both regionally in Africa and globally beyond the continent. There is also, however, an equal sense of dissatisfaction with the status quo by the citizens; most would agree that there is a level of greatness that the country is still yet to attain and make a reality. Why could this be? What could be keeping Nigeria from achieving the desired future and rising to it's highest potential? Below are 5 things we could consider to help move the dialogue forward. This is not an exhaustive list but things to note as the nation embarks on another new year.
(1) Nothing of significant value can be accomplished without, dedication, hard-work and grit. Nigeria needs more "fighters"; those who care for not only themselves, their ethnic affiliations or political parties but most importantly for the health of the national body. When I think of founding fathers like Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa, who helped forge a new Nigeria through independence and post independence, I can not help but appreciate their tenacity and fortitude and love for country. They were extremely strategic in their approach and today Nigeria is celebrating independent because of their selfless pursuit of that which was good for all Nigerians. As we consider the future of Nigeria, a new generation of leaders must emerge that would lead the way is similar fashion. Nigeria must be rebuilt into a country "where peace and justice reign.."
(2) We must know what we want and what we do not want and be ready to pay the price to acquire it. I often feel that there are conflicting messages being passed around. We need to find ways to articulate what the future of Nigeria should be and also work for it. For example many do say we want great leaders but when it comes time to vote we all fail to campaign for those we believe can lead the nation forward. We must use our influence to drive Nigeria forward. If we don't we will be handing over to our children a less than ideal nation.