By Shedrack Onakpoma
Growing up, we always looked forward to celebrations of all sorts; Independence Day, naming ceremonies, birthday parties, wedding parties…. you name them. Today, our love for celebrations have even increased in affluence, glamour and pageantry.
However, it appears Independence Day celebration is no longer as nostalgic and eventful as it once was. How can we refuse to celebrate our father’s land with grandeur and glamour as we used to in days past?
I believe the problem is largely due to a dearth of hope by Nigerians. However, hope is one thing we cannot afford to lose. The reason is simple: Hope if freedom; hope is faith, and hope….is the future.
In a land of freedom, we have seen men like Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia and Dangote flourish and blossom in good and in the hard times. Coming generations can only learn from these great men and get better in the art of entrepreneurship. Unlike some communist countries where the people have no incentive to aspire for greatness, Nigerians can aspire to become great and do great things for the Nation.
In a land of faith, people can dream big even when they are starting very small. We have seen Nigerians start from nothing and today they have built a sustainable business with landmark historical monuments that can never be forgotten. The next generation can only do better!
In the land of the future. With over 180 million population size, blessed with natural resources and good climatic conditions, vibrant youths that can compete anywhere in the world. We can only get better.
Yes, we may have diverse ethnic groups, but we are rich in diverse cultural heritage.
Yes, we have diverse religious belief, but we can embrace and respect our rich spiritual heritage.
Yes, we have had our fair share of war, poor leadership and decisions in the past, but our history is rich.
Our history is our history but not our destiny.
I see Nigeria’s future better than what we currently have now. In Nigeria, it will no longer be heard or said, “The good old days” but “there are better days ahead” or “it can only get better”.
Even during economic downturn, recessions and the many hardships we have been through as a nation, Nigeria has remained resilient and Nigerians have shown the power of an enduring spirit.
So, arise fellow compatriots. Let us stop pulling our blessed nation down. Let us stop the divide and rule game, let’s stop focusing on our differences and start to look at the things that bind us together as a nation. Let us all embrace our freedom, embrace faith, and a better future for this generation and generations unborn. Let us believe in our nation…. Our Nigeria! A land of freedom, faith and a brighter future.
