History Matters As Nigeria Decides

As I strive to conclude grading examination scripts for a semester of undergraduate work, my thoughts and good wishes are with all hopefuls for Nigeria's forthcoming general elections.

In our rejuvenated democratic space, thoroughbred Nigerians now have handy scoring guidelines from recent history, with which to grade contenders in the race, for their good or bad politics.

Looking through the trajectory of Nigeria's governance and development, I am really working for a united Nigeria to win over all things and everyone else.

My rationale: In a truly progressive climate, the pursuit of nation-building and shared prosperity ought to prevail over unfounded religious sentiments, ethnic prejudice, selfish ambition, and a sense of entitlement.

Very much like industrial policy, politics and governance breed winners cum losers, and Nigeria's timeline presents many reasoning points:

In 1914, intentions of the British colonial masters won, and the Northern and Southern protectorates of Nigeria were successfully welded together in the historic amalgamation exercise.

By 1960, the good graces of nationalistic and forward-looking founding fathers of independent Nigeria won, and they worked tirelessly to set a remarkable Constitution in order.

At sundry times until May 1999, the plans and purposes of several military interventionists won, and they ruled the Nigerian territory to the best of their ability.

Since the return to democratic rule in 1999 until the present time, many of our political leaders have showed up at the elm of affairs as fortunate winners, steering the sail of our national ship through many winds and waves. For all these we are very thankful.

This is 2023, and the right time for Nigeria to win. As we all take steps forward in support of the winning country of our heritage, I share some valuable lessons from our recent history.

🇳🇬 With political independence comes a huge burden of responsibility and accountability, this should be borne gracefully and diligently.

🇳🇬 Foreigners and our forebears may have borrowed us leaves from their caps of success and experience, but a united people of purpose and passion would have to fashion out their own stature and salvation.

🇳🇬 Internal conflicts and violence tends to retard national progress and divide unity. We must not embrace underdevelopment, so peace is our best option.

🇳🇬 Tailor-made local and national governance solutions tend to be more empowering than the blind adoption of laundry lists dumped by developed countries.

🇳🇬 Democracy has brought many dividends. Yet, without social justice it tends to create relatively few winners and a multitude of losers.

 🇳🇬 As good as popular vote may be, without sovereign political will, the winner of a popular vote may not gain the reins of democratic rule. Sovereign will always makes a difference. 

🇳🇬 Good politics is commendable, but choice nation-builders with unity of purpose and good institutions are more urgent needs for Nigeria.

May we all give well-deserved grades to a Nigeria united in vision, power, faith, and possibilities.

Peace to Nigeria, the winning nation!

In 2023 and beyond, LET NIGERIA WIN!