The Shepherd Superintendent of the Household of God Church, Lagos, Rev Chris Okotie, has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 64th Independence Anniversary to reinforce their faith in God’s sure promises.
In a press release circulated in Lagos yesterday by Rev Okotie’s media adviser, Ladi Ayodeji, the cleric,who quoted profusely from the Bible in his main text on the story of Abraham,urged Nigerians to be hopeful always for better days as God does not abandon his people.
Below is the summary of his goodwill message:
“These are perilous times.
“Our faith in God must become the Gyrostat which keeps us afloat as we navigate the tempestuous waters of our convoluted reality. Nigeria is a client Nation for God. Nigeria has a prophetic destiny.
Therefore the sovereign superintendence of Almighty God is assured.
“Nigeria is strong. Nigeria will survive.
So Hope on. Hope ever .
Hope on. Hope ever !”
Rev Okotie has always said that Nigeria enjoys a special bond with God, and the country’s trajectory should not bother the Nigerian people.
The Imo State Government has unveiled its plans to commemorate the country’s 64th independence anniversary in an elaborate style.
The state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mr Declan Emelumba, said this while addressing newsmen in Owerri, on Friday.
Emelumba, who conveyed Gov. Hope Uzodinma’s warm felicitations on the anniversary to Imo residents, said that the governor would make a state-wide broadcast on Tuesday, October 1.
“We’re rolling out the drums in celebration of the 64th independence anniversary of Nigeria.
“As part of the activities marking the celebration, Jumaat prayers will hold today, Friday, at the Central Mosque, Owerri.
“On Sunday, September 29, a special mass will be celebrated at the Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, to be presided over by the Archbishop of Owerri Catholic Archdiocese, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji,” Emelumba
said.
He further said that the celebration proper would take place at the Ndubuisi Kanu Square, with military parade, a march-past by various groups to be wrapped up with the Governor’s address.
He called on all the Imo residents to support the arrangement and come out in their numbers to join the government to celebrate Nigeria.
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has called on Nigerians to work assiduously for the strengthening of institutions of governance to make democracy more responsive to the yearnings of the people.
In an Independence goodwill message to Nigerians, Senator Omo-Agege who is also the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State said all levels of government – federal, states and local governments – should be involved in the task so that all institutions in our democratic dispensation fulfill their constitutional tasks and responsibilities.
Mr. Sunny Areh, Media Adviser to the former Deputy Senate President, in a press release quoted him as saying that with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man who he said believes in constitutional democracy as President, Nigerians should join hands with him to build strong institutions.
“I believe Nigeria is lucky at this time to have President Bola Tinubu leading the charge. He has a sterling record in strengthening the institutions of government, of upholding the various arms’ independence and of making democracy work for the people from his time as governor. In the challenging times we are in, the best recipe for restoring Nigeria is to ensure that all institutions stand firmly as envisaged in the constitution. This should be the case in states and local government areas, not just the federal government”, he said.
Omo-Agege stated that there is no alternative route to securing and strengthening democratic rule than through strong institutions, especially at state and local government levels.
As the country tinkers with the imperative of devolving more powers to states, he said the three arms outside the federal level must correspondingly be strengthened and their independence upheld vigorously.
“When institutions at the levels of government closer to the people are strong, then actual power will devolve to the people and our democracy will be the better for it”, Omo-Agege said.
After over 24 years of unbroken democratic rule and 63 years of Independence, he said “Nigeria is ripe enough to be counted not just as a bastion of democratic rule but a defender of democracy”.
He congratulated President Tinubu, the National Assembly and Nigerians generally, noting the prevailing economic challenges are global and only a concerted approach and collaboration with other democratic governments elsewhere will hasten the country’s return to sustainable development.
He wished Nigerians a happy Independence anniversary.
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Hon Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President while acknowledging present challenges in the polity said that there were many landmarks in the nation’s 63 years to give a sense of optimism for a better tomorrow.
While noting the particular struggles that Nigeria has passed through as a country in the last 63 years, Senator Akpabio said that each country has its unique path with unique challenges it must pass through.
Affirming that the fabrics of national cohesion are increasingly being braced by the unique Nigerian struggles, Senator Akpabio said that he was confident to assert that Nigeria was now on the correct pathway to rediscovery.
“As we reminiscence on our 63 years as a country it is tempting to allow present economic and security considerations becloud the triumphs of our nationhood.
“I dare say that in several fields of endeavour, the world has reckoned and continues to reckon with Nigeria in business, politics, sports and the arts.
“Indeed, I must today salute Nigerian music and showbiz stars who have almost through sheer grit and grace taken the world stage with a number of individual accomplishments.”
“It is against this background that I call on Nigerians everywhere not to give up hope in the nation.”
Pledging the determination of the National Assembly under his leadership to give the legislative framework to advance the nation to greater heights, Senator Akpabio said:
“I make this pledge on the occasion of our nation’s Independence Anniversary that the National Assembly under my leadership will continue to provide legislations and other parliamentary initiatives to push forward the Nigeria of our dreams.
“What I ask of every citizen is to do their part in the collaboration between government and the populace in making tomorrow a better Nigeria for all.”
“I congratulate the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GFCR on being the unique Nigerian with the unique opportunity of turning Nigeria towards the country of our dreams.
“On behalf of my colleagues in the National Assembly, I pledge to assist him within the limits of constitutional provisions in this drive.
“My congratulations also go to all my colleagues in the National Assembly and Nigerians as a whole on this unique anniversary.”
The commemoration of Nigeria’s independence when the Union Jack was lowered took place two Fridays ago. The only opportunity to cling glasses in this column was last week but for my attention that was drawn to the unspeakable suffering of commuters on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and that of communities abutting it. It was independence from colonial rule when Nigeria attained the freedom to preside over her own affairs. It is often said that with political freedom, economic freedom ensues.
Other freedoms are regarded as given, especially in a democratic setting—such as freedom of expression, freedom of association, freedom of movement, freedom of conscience, freedom from torture, freedom from servitude and forced labour and so on. Because the suffering on the road negates the hopes and promises of the independence, I shelved writing to commemorate the occasion last week.
What then were the aspirations and hopes the independence brandished before the gaze of Nigerians?
Let’s go down memory lane to have some idea of the promises of the October 01, 1960. “As the clock struck mid-night, they took their positions on the dais and watched the lowering of the Union Jack (British Flag) and hosting of the Nigerian flag…And so ended 100 years of British rule…100 years of colonial bondage…And I am happy. And I am sobbing…”
That was the classic impressionistic reporting by Alhaji Babatunde Jose, the newspaper wizard, an exceptionally gifted editor and newspaper administrator extra-ordinary, the one and unforgettable managing director/chairman of the Daily Times. He took it upon himself to personally cover the momentous and historic event. He filed his report from the Race Course years later renamed Tafawa Balewa Square. The report was appropriately bylined Babatunde Jose, Editor, Daily Times Newspaper on 01 October, 1960.
For those of us privileged to have passed through his hands in our magic kingdom and empire, the largest newspaper in Africa South of the Sahara boasting of 15 flourishing publications, the report and the thoughts of Alhaji Jose cannot but stir up nostalgic memories. For the campaigners and freedom fighters, the generality of Nigerians it was a dream come true. School children marched through the streets to gather on fields designated for the great day, waving the Green-White National Flag to blow away the Empire Day and welcome the dawn of independence and freedom in their land.
On the occasion of the 62nd anniversary of the independence two Fridays ago, President Buhari said in his address to the nation: “When you elected me, I readily acknowledged that the tasks before me were daunting but not insurmountable because of the growing national consensus that our chosen route to national development was democracy…This democracy was to be anchored on a clear understanding, application and the principles of separation of powers supported by a reformed public service that is more effective…Mindful of the tasks before us, we took some time in settling down and we repositioned the economy by providing strategic interventions in core areas at both the federal and sub-national levels.
One of the areas where we have made significant progress is in the eradication of deeply entrenched corruption that permeates all facets of our national development…As we continue to de-escalate the security challenges that confronted us at inception of this administration, newer forms alien to our country began to manifest especially in the areas of kidnappings, molestations/killings of innocent citizens, banditry, all of which are being addressed by our security forces. I share the pains Nigerians are going through and I assure you that your resilience and patience would not be in vain as this administration continues to reposition as well as strengthen the security agencies to enable them to deal with all forms of security challenges.”
How much the challenges of nation building have gone to thwart the dreams and aspirations held aloft by Nigerians at independence is not the focus of this column today, but his recognition some years back that an anniversary provides opportunity for thanksgiving, reflection and rededication. I want to believe chroniclers must be busy gathering materials for his testimonial, come 29 May, 2023. As it is in the lives of all human beings, so is it in the life of a nation. It is an opportunity to look back: How has this journey fared? Then a resolution ensues for renewed striving to attain the goal. Are independence and freedom the veritable vehicles for reaching the goal?
What is the meaning of independence and what is the meaning of freedom? Independence is not being dependent, whether as a nation, community, or a human being. It is a state that the nation does not receive dictation from anywhere. It is in a position even if influenced by experiences and lessons of other lands, to take its own decision thought to be in its interest, and own that decision. It is in a position to take its destiny in its own hands—after weighing and examining.
So was it that the other day, I was reading to brush up my familiarity with the International Bill of Rights. How refreshing it was to find, under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Articles such as: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood”; “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person”; “No one shall be held in slavery or servitude: slavery and slave trade shall be prohibited in all their forms;” “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” There are 30 Articles under this declaration, and 31 under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural rights.
Freedoms are derived from human as well as civil rights, that is, from recognition of inalienable rights inherent in every human being as an intrinsic part of his being that is by virtue of his being as a human person, and from rights conferred by society in accordance with its own light. In a majority of countries, constitutions guaranteeing these rights are modeled after the United Nations declarations to which they may have been signatories. Indeed, the Covenant is specially directed at the states Parties. Lawyers in human rights struggle are quick to remind governments of their pledge to uphold the covenant. There are also elaborate provisions that guarantee economic and political rights—rights to self-determination. “By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development, according to Article 1, Part 1.
Despite all these guarantees, there are moments of a feeling of unfreedom even for the purportedly free man. There is a feeling of unfreedom in the circle of nobility, of kings, the emperors and the powerful. What then is freedom if the king and the lawmaker whose words may be law sometimes find they are in bondage? A great deal of progress has been made by many countries to secure freedom and liberties for mankind in their march through time and civilization. Indeed, a civilized nation is that which professes its belief in freedom and liberties.
At the end of World War 1, international concern for preservation of human rights heightened and materialized in the charter of the League of Nations. Despite the popularization of the charter and voluntary and pious declaration of adherence to its provisions, our world is still enveloped in insecurity. Man feels in chain everywhere from the high to the lowly, in the society, in neighbourhoods, in the market place, in the Stock Exchange market, in colleges, in homes.
Progress in finding freedom can only be made when we come to know its meaning. What is often regarded as unfreedom is the physical manifestation of burden, a man in jail, for example. But freedom lies only in liberation from the bondage of passion, that is, conquest of passion, self-conquest whether by a governor, teacher, minister, businessman, industrialist, or a farm hand. Entanglement arises from deviation from principles of life, principles governing relationships. A man may be entangled by passion of smoking or drinking, passion for pursuit of power or influence, wealth, public acknowledgement, fame, or recognition. A man who is a triple chief quickly corrects you even if in error you address him as Mister; he takes offence. In the process many let go and lack of consideration towards fellow human beings follows. In all pursuits, every man receives the inner warning as to the rightness or wrongness of his intended action.
Thus, unfreedom results from disobedience to the principles of life. This engenders vices which are called wrong-doing. A wrong-doer feels under pressure to rid himself of his vices. With resistance mounted against the pressure, he receives sanctions out of order that upholds life and which seeks unyieldingly to put him in line. In resistance he tears out, gets angrier. If in power he resolves to deal with the lesser man. If a lesser man, harassed by economic hardship, he decides to wreck his employer’s enterprise. The resistance consequently brings pain and horror. He feels crushed and in the circumstances he is completely helpless. The man who is free, therefore, is he who submits voluntarily to the principles of life. By so doing, he will come to the appreciation of the higher order and wider correlations of life for principles mean origin. They are the Laws of Creation and the Laws are the expression of the Will of the Almighty Father, the Creator.
When burdened, a man becomes immobile within. This leads to ponderousness, indolence, love of sleep, and love of ease. Immobility within leads to impaired vision and thought. Laws constructed from such distorted vision and thought must necessarily be defective and so the society finds itself in bondage. Because bondage is unnatural it is deviation from order and harmony swinging and upholding Creation and creatures within it, there is imbalance, which byproduct is disharmony, distrust, and lack of respect for one and another. From impaired judgment and defective law, there must arise social injustice; from social injustice instability and stagnation. Since life is all motion, there can be no standstill; hence there can be no stagnation. It is either progress or decline. Commotion results from decline. Force and coercion are called for. There are protests; there are arrests, there is imprisonment and there are outcries.
National independence, economic independence and what have you must mean the independence of each individual which also must correspond with these laws of morality and decency, eternally flowing from outside of all mankind. The free man is, thus, he who is unburdened within. Since the independence of a nation is tantamount to the independence of its people, a truly independent country is one where a majority of its people are independent deriving from freedom from burden within. People unburdened within are mature within and in consequence attract help of calm confidence and sunshine happiness that flows from On High.
Triumph of naturalness
More often than not, civilization is still at its old game. It sways you as if in a swing, first forward, giving the impression of movement and progress and next moment backwards, leaving no doubt that the so-called progress was mere illusion. It is no longer news that the denatured food in which the hands of technology is very evident has no nutritional value and advantage over the natural food stuff and fruits. Take for example the milled rice or Uncle Ben’s type of rice. Nutritionists have been debating it for some time that it has no nutritional advantage over brown rice and that if anything it is chaff. Our gaze is now being turned inwards to embrace Okada Rice. In the same debate doubts have been expressed over white flour bread and, indeed, extending these to practically all flour products. White sugar belongs to this family of foodless foods. Scientific evidence has been thrown up in Europe and the United States revealing that babies fed on their mothers’ milk are more “intellectually brighter” and have better eyesight than those fed on cow milk or formula. The discovery, attributed to leading scientists, even suggests that when premature babies fed on cow’s milk or formulas are malnourished their development may suffer irreversible impairment.
The crux of the matter is said to be the amount of a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids available to the baby in the last three months of pregnancy when it consolidates its growth, and so soon after given the fact that “60% of the brain and 30% of the retina”, the light sensitive part of the eye, “are made up of fatty acids. Two fatty acids in particular (Omega-3 and Omega-6) are described as most crucial. Both are abundant in maternal milk but not available at all in cow’s milk or baby foods. Against the background of 5% of 625, 000 births in the UK, suffering from “breathing problems and higher rate of disorder”, attention was turned to Faroe Islands where women “eat a high fish diet” and “carry more babies to full term than any other population.” Approximately 20 million low weight babies are born every year globally but mostly in developing countries, Portugal 9.5 and Finland the lowest with 3.9%. And panning to the slogan that “Nine months in the womb allows the brain central nervous system to reach full potential” the British Nutritional Foundation recommended that fatty acids be included in infant formular food. Professor Alan Lucas, (1910-1995), Head of Childhood Nutrition Centre, London, studied eight-year-olds and found that “children fed on mothers’ milk had clear advantages over formula-fed infants.”
Alexander Leaf, emeritus Professor of clinical Medicine at Harvard Medical School, who died in 2012, aged 92, once said: “It may be that over the past two generations, mothers have avoided feeding with their milk for convenience and cosmetic reasons. This may have resulted in two generations of children with developmental difficulties. Children who are not as intelligent as their natural ability would have permitted.” In his 80s he began to study the effects of fish oil and fatty acids on longevity, describing the effectiveness of fish oil’s Omega -3 fatty acids in curtailing heart attacks that result in chaotic contractions of the heart’s muscles.
It is noteworthy that our country still boasts of an alert population given more to instinctive or intuitive sensing than to experimentation. How often has it been said in our land even if only as a joke , that today’s children behave not as children in the days of their parents on account of not being raised on maternal milk but on the cow milk from the feeding bottle they leave with the house-helps as they hurry out of the house to work. One can sense a deep meaning in this seeming superficiality. Externally, the bodies of man and cow belong to the same material origin although they may be said to belong to different animal species in scientific categorization. And as the external form is merely a coarse materialization of the finer animating core, according to enlightenment by higher knowledge on earth today, the originating essence in both cases must belong to different orders, the higher, that is man, to nobler, the lower to the less noble. Cow milk must, therefore, be intended by Nature for the infant cow and maternal milk for the infant human child. Nature does not ever go wrong. To construct the function otherwise is to seek to make the cow play surrogate mother for the human foetus.
Nigeria is the 6th most populous country in the world. It is richly endowed with several mineral resources, including oil, Nigeria has a great potential that, if utilized, can propel it to great heights of success. However, 62 years after independence, the country, like a vehicle on a hilly road, is struggling to climb. Indeed, one would argue that its large population and resources are at present a weakness and not a strength as they should be. Significant challenges impeding its progress include high unemployment, poor infrastructure, insecurity, poor governance and a high level of immigration.
So, with the myriad challenges, can Nigeria spring up and reverse the negative and worrying trajectory? Without a doubt, a positive change is possible. But first, there must be a paradigm shift. Indeed, the Nigerian government, decision-makers in the third sector and business leaders are fully aware of the challenges the county is facing six decades after gaining its independence from Britain. The million-dollar question is how can these challenges be addressed for sustainable success for all? Leveraging my experience of engaging with over 4000 executives globally and helping hundreds of organizations to win, I suggest these seven areas that could fast-track Nigeria’s goal of sustainable development, comparative advantage and the competitiveness of her businesses in the global space.
Harnessing Diasporas and Increasing Exodus of Talent
Migration movements worldwide have positively influenced economic and demographic transformations over the years. In the past few years, owing to globalization and in search of greener pastures, there has been massive emigration of Nigerians to Europe, North America and Asia. Unlike in the past, today’s migration is characterized by the transfer of skills, technologies and resources that, if utilized well and an enabling environment created, can help in nation building.
Being a country endowed with huge potential, Nigeria can achieve prosperity by harnessing diasporans and attracting investments from compatriots outside the country’s shores. Specifically, diasporans could be a source of talent and technology transfer. Technology advancement could be achieved if the country develops special schemes that encourage more Nigerians to return home, at least during their leave. This suggestion is practicable as some doctors overseas are already doing this for Nigeria, and South Korean and Chinese Engineers do it for their nations. Thus, this will make their emigration from Nigeria a brain gain, just like the Jewish diasporans.
On the other hand, through better intra-agency collaboration, deliberate government policy and judicious use of big and deep data, the country should make it easier for some of its citizens who have migrated to other countries to invest at home. Furthermore, given the country’s present revenue challenge and the diasporans’ remittances are the country’s largest source of foreign exchange, it is critical for government and the private sector to invest more in a better relationship with the “hen that lays the golden egg”. Better relations initiatives could include conferment of more Nigerian national honours when they excel overseas and offering the opportunity to participate in the electoral process through suffrage.
Also, since diasporans are plenipotentiaries overseas, they could also be a source of global soft power. They could help obtain the outcomes that Nigerians want in world politics if they are actively courted and treated as strategic assets. With better connections with their home country and incentives for investment, it becomes easier to foster development and nation-building.
Vertical Integration of Agriculture and Petroleum
Nigeria is one of the world’s largest producers of oil and gas yet the largest importer of refined petroleum and fertilizers in Africa. The largest producer of cassava but the continent’s largest importer of starch. One of the continent’s biggest tomato producers but the largest importer of tomato paste. Nigeria is in a no-win situation with her almost sole reliance on oil for its foreign exchange export earnings. For example, with over-reliance on oil, the price volatility makes it difficult for leaders to plan. Also, when the price is low government revenue dwindles and when the price is high, government expenditure increases due to subsidies. One way to avoid such scenarios is by diversifying and building other industries. More precisely, vertical integration of agricultural and petroleum industries could reduce her foreign exchange import bill and create fiscal stability. Vertical integration should entail the Nigerian government and business leaders building more refineries to leverage petrochemicals’ developmental benefits, especially for the country. According to IEA, petrochemicals are the largest source of demand for crude oil and will account for 50% of crude oil demand by 2050. By-products of petrochemicals include asphalt for paving roads, aromatics for the manufacture of perfumes, Propylene and sulphur used in the petrochemical, pharmaceuticals and naphtha for producing polymer. Other uses of petrochemicals are for manufacturing digital devices, medical equipment, fertilizers, detergents and tyres. Petrochemicals are so vital that they could be a source of developing the renewable energy value chain. For example, petrochemicals could be used to manufacture components of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, thermal insulation and electric vehicles, which is greener, sustainable and will create jobs. The symbiosis between the petrochemical and agricultural value chain will drive energy and food security in Nigeria. It could spur the development of the agro-allied industries that could ensure an integrated manufacturing ecosystem. This strategic approach to leadership would also lead to the conservation of foreign exchange and create a compelling case to attract more foreign direct investment that will enhance economic growth. In doing so, the country diversifies its revenue stream and builds vibrant industries, especially agriculture and manufacturing, that will drive sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
Building a National Brand
Arguably, Nigeria can create a meaningful economic impact and promote sustainable growth over the coming years if it builds a vibrant and trusted national brand globally. But first, it must set its standards high and strive to build trust in Nigerian products and services, especially in agricultural products, fashion, arts and entertainment. Nigeria can borrow a leaf from Japan, whose Made in Japan goods and services are considered among the top 5 trusted brands globally. However, this country’s export was not always regarded as high quality; given Japan’s poor response to Fukushima, many of its manufactured cars were once considered low quality. Like the Japanese, the Nigerian government should invest in sensitization programmes that encourage manufacturers to enshrine transparency, authenticity, continuous improvement, innovation and flexibility while producing and exporting their goods and services. With an excellent national brand, the government and other business leaders can go ahead to market their products and improve Nigeria’s balance of payment. Indeed, national brands have other benefits, including high customer trust, reduced marketing expenses, visibility, loyalty and strong, soft power. With such benefits and the associated high revenues, achieving prosperity will be a matter of time.
Harnessing Nigeria’s Youthful Population
With one of the largest youthful populations in the world, Nigeria has a tremendous economic asset that, if utilized well, can contribute to the country’s economic growth. Approximately 70% of the country’s population is young, most of whom are under 30. Such a high percentage of youthfulness can be harnessed for nation-building, especially in the areas relating to art, entertainment, fashion and technology development, among others. From Facebook to WordPress, Subway to Dell, Microsoft to Yankee candles, these companies all have a common denominator; young people founded them. While Europe is ageing and arguably in decline, Nigeria could leverage its young demography’s drive, energy and technological capacity in unleashing innovation and optimizing its global impact. But for such a population to be adequately harnessed and its potential utilized, the government and other leaders in the private sector must invest in good health care, tuition in entrepreneurship and how to manage money at a very young age. Also, competitive grants should be offered, and mentoring programmes extended to young entrepreneurs. These deliberate investments in the youths will build their entrepreneurial capabilities and develop a skilled and healthy workforce for national prosperity. Suppose all stakeholders consciously try to create a favourable environment for youths to thrive and blossom? In that case, the youths will channel their passion, talent and energy into building Nigeria, a superpower globally.
Developing a Sustainable Energy Ecosystem
In recognition of the growing threats of adverse changes in climate leading to environmental degradation and global warming, the Nigerian government and leaders in the private sector need to pay attention to developing a sustainable energy ecosystem as part of its nation-building strategies. While the country is endowed with abundant natural resources such as wind and sunlight, the country can learn from China, whose government has partnered with the private sector and other international partners to invest massively in the sustainable energy ecosystem. There is a need to increase funding and deployment of environmentally friendly technologies; this will attract international grants and foreign direct investment. Diversifying its energy sources to more sustainable and abundant sources will spur industrial transformation that will reduce transactional costs and positively impact the productivity of Nigeria’s formal and informal sectors. Furthermore, the country will be able to promote pollution mitigation, preserve its environment, contribute to a safe and healthier populace, leading to a more prosperous future for the present and next generation, and achieve sustainable national development.
Take Advantage of Africa’s Free Trade Agreement
Africa’s free trade agreement seeks to promote the free movement of capital, labour, goods and services within the region. Since it took effect in January 2021, the agreement has been gradually eliminating tariffs on goods traded in the continent-wide market across 55 countries. In addition to removal of barriers, there are other additional benefits that will accrue due to the expected increase in foreign direct investment both from within various African countries and even outside Africa. In particular, the investment will bring capital, skills and technologies that will spur economic growth.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, stands to gain in many ways if it has the first mover advantage to take advantage of the agreement. Nigerian firms, especially manufacturing enterprises should utilize the free access to cheaper goods and services from other African countries. However, as it stands, intra-Africa trade remains low. Nigeria’s imports from African countries relative to its total imports remains below 5 percent, while its exports to other African countries are slightly above 10 percent, clearly suggesting that there are opportunities not yet tapped. Going forward, the government and business leaders need to seize the opportunity by building competitive sectors to take advantage of the close to one billion strong market created by the agreement. Just as Germany has greatly benefited and registered tremendous growth by offering innovative and value-adding goods and services to the EU market, Nigeria can do the same in Africa.
Harness Diversity as a strength
Undoubtedly, Nigeria has one of the most culturally diverse populations globally, comprising 300 ethnic groups, speaking over 520 languages and practising different religions. Such diversity brings together a large pool of opportunities which can be harnessed for nation-building in many ways. For instance, Southeasterners are entrepreneurial, the North is the country’s food basket, the Southwest appears adept in international affairs, and South-south is the foreign exchange hub through the export of petroleum products. If brought together through transformative leadership, all these can be great for building national cohesion, as in the USA. Albert Einstein (in science and originally from Germany), Sergey Brin (Co-Founder of Google, originally from Russia) and Dikembe Mutombo (Renowned Basketballer – from the Democratic Republic of Congo) are all successful immigrant Americans. These examples demonstrate that America is a fantastic example that celebrates diversity and harnesses talent irrespective of where they are from. If the USA can do it, Nigeria could also do it-the country could be a confederation of nations, where your ethnicity, religion or gender will not limit what you can achieve.
In conclusion, as Nigeria commemorates its independence, there is so much to do to achieve prosperity over the coming years. However, if it can tackle its challenges and utilize the opportunities it has in the seven areas explored, then there is a very successful future for this blessed nation. Happy Independence celebration, Nigeria.
Dr Alim Abubakre is on the advisory board of the London Business School Africa Club and is the non-executive chair of These Executive Minds (TEXEM, www.texem.co.uk)-An organisation which he founded and has trained over 4,000 executives across multiple continents.
He is a Senior Lecturer in International Business at Sheffield Business School (An AACSB accredited Business School) at Sheffield Hallam University.
An ‘anniversary picture’ of President Muhammadu Buhari and his wife, Aisha, has continued to attract attention and comments on the social media space as the week under review witnessed Nigeria’s colourful 62nd Independence Day Anniversary parades.
The picture described as the ”best pix from the anniversary celebration” was released by one of the President’s Personal Assistants (Photography) on Saturday.
A social commentator and Abuja-based media practitioner, Mr Lawrence Olaoye, described the picture as ”a display of love in the first family”, adding: ”This is the demonstration of solid family base. This is an award winning picture”.
Juliana, another admirer of the first family’s picture, who commented from New York, United States, simply said: ”I just love this” while referring to the lovely picture.
The lovely picture has led to social media challenge as different pictures of couples, including that of Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, displaying similar postures were now treading in the social media space.
The first couple were captured in the picture when the president, on Saturday, led dignitaries including Osinbajo, former President Goodluck Jonathan, several other local and foreign dignitaries to witness the Nigeria’s colourful 62nd Independence Day Anniversary parades.
The event was held amidst watertight security at the Eagle Square, Abuja, on Saturday. It witnessed colorful parades and a display of a high sense of professionalism by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The president had earlier addressed Nigerians on the occasion of the 62nd independence anniversary. He assured citizens that their resilience and patience would not end in vain as his administration continues to reposition and strengthen the security agencies to tackle nation’s security challenges.
Buhari said that he shared the pains Nigerians were going through while commending their resilience in the face of challenges. Buhari had also commended Nigerians for giving him the opportunity to lead the country both in 2015 and 2019. He added that he had delivered on most of the promises he made to the people in the last seven years.
Buhari also reiterated his appeal to the striking ASUU members to return to the classroom, while assuring them to deal with their contending issues within the limits of the scarce resources available.
According to him, the Federal Government will continue to mobilise resources both internationally and nationally towards funding education, to ensure that citizens are well educated and skilled in various vocations
Nigerians from all walks of life on Saturday set New York City aglow and painted the city with green-white-green insignia.
The Nigerian community leaders and envoys joined other compatriots to temporarily close down some parts of the Second Avenue in Midtown.
Notable among those who attended the parade and carnival were the Ambassador of Nigeria to the United States, Dr. Uzoma Emenike and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.
Mayor of New York Eric Adams and the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija and first Nigerian-American congressman, Adeoye Omolewa, also joined the revelers at the colourful parade.
Also, a young talented 12-year old Saxophonist, Temilayo Abodunrin, was among the instrumentalists leading the parade.
The Parade, which began at the Second Avenue on E. 54th Street and terminated at E. 44th Street at Nigeria House, drew thousands of Nigerians who had the best of time as they sang and danced to Nigerian music.
known as the largest celebration of Nigeria outside the homeland, the annual Nigerian Independence Day Parade, in its 30th year, celebrated the very best, which showcased Nigeria’s unique culture.
The event also promoted the positive image of Nigeria to the rest of the world as several other nationals joined in dancing to the Nigerian music.
The parade later proceeded to the Dag Hammarskjold Park, where Timi Dakolo, Goya Menor, sensational kid saxophonist Temilayo Abodunrin and Ijoya Dance Crew reveled in the moment.
The Mayor, while addressing the excited crowd, paid glowing tribute to Nigeria and Nigerians’ unique way of life.
“No one throws a party like Lagos in Nigeria. No one knows how to celebrate life, like Nigeria.
“And right here in New York, your rich culture and contribution to the city is unbelievable,” Mayor Adams said.
The mayor thanked Nigerians for their support when he was running to become the mayor of the City of New York.
President of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), Mr Solomon Bakare, congratulated Nigerians on the 62nd independence anniversary.
The Nigerian community leader, lamented the state of the nation after 62 years of independence, saying the dreams of the founding fathers had not been realised.
Bakare challenged Nigerian leaders to improve the lives of the common man and redouble their efforts in building the country as truly the giant of Africa.
The official said the parade and carnival, which started in 1991, was a way to showcase Nigeria to the world and address the negative stereotypes of Nigerians in the American media.
He said the OAN, which annually organised the parade and carnival, was founded in 1989 by a group of concerned Nigerians to address the needs of the Nigerian community.
At that time, Nigeria and Nigerians were suffering seriously from negative stereotypes in the American media.
Prior to OAN’s formation, there was no organisation committed to the broader issues facing the Nigerian community in the United States.
OAN filled the void by creating an umbrella organisation, which embraced Nigerians from all works of life, regardless of their ethnic and religious backgrounds.
See photos below:
Mr Solomon Adelaja, Public Relations Officer, Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) leading the 2022 edition of Independence Day Parade on Saturday in New York(Middle) The Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Amb. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande at the 2022 edition of Independence Day Parade on Saturday in New York
President of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), Mr Solomon Bakare, congratulated Nigerians on the 62nd independence anniversary before the commencement of Independence Day Carnival in New York
Independence: ‘No one celebrates life like Nigeria’ – New York City Mayor
New York City Mayor, Mr Eric Adams, on Saturday evening joined Nigerians from all walks of life to celebrate the 62nd independence anniversary of their homeland.
Adams, in his speech at the Independence Day Carnival, paid glowing tribute to Nigerians for their resilience and unique social and cultural life.
He recalled with nostalgia, his visit to Africa but that his experience in Lagos stood out, declaring that no city throws a party like Lagos.
“I remember landing in Lagos. I remember landing on a Monday and not sleeping again until Sunday,” he said.
“No one throws a party like Lagos in Nigeria. No one knows how to celebrate life, like Nigeria.
“And right here in New York, your rich culture and contribution to the city is unbelievable,” Adams stressed.
The mayor thanked Nigerians for their support when he was running to become the mayor of the City of New York.
“I reached out to the youth league of this organisation and others, you were 100 per cent saying we’re going to be with our brother, our fellow African so that he can become the mayor of the city of New York.
“So don’t let anyone deny you of the history. I am very clear. Although I live in America. I am African because I’ll always be African.
Adam also recalled the pain of slave trade and declared that Africans built America to become the greatest country on earth.
“America owes Africa so much. America is what it is because of the people of Africa that were ripped from their soil years ago to come here.
“So, all those years we have been separated, we are here today to say we will be united forever and never ripped apart from each other again,” he said.
The Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr Uzoma Emenike, in her remarks, thanked Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) and partners for their tireless efforts organising the event for over 30 years.
“That you’re also sustaining and improving it over the years despite the challenges, is a testament of the Nigerian DNA of resilience and the love Nigerians in diaspora have for their country.
“It is also the desire to maintain the national identity and culture even in a faraway land; the tenacity and generosity of Nigerians in diaspora to recreate the Nigerian culture in their place of temporary residence.”
Emenike noted that Nigeria was the only African country which nationality is celebrated with the temporary closure of a busy strategic road as the Second Avenue in Midtown.
“This is another testament to Nigeria’s high starting global and high regard leading countries across the world to the United States,” she said.
The Nigerian envoy commended Nigerians in the United States for their spirit of excellence saying, “indeed, you all are the real ambassador”.
According to her, Nigerians migrate to the United States and other countries primarily to seek educational and economic opportunities.
“It is well documented that Nigerian immigrants here in the United States excel in their various chosen fields,” she said.
Emenike said estimated three million Nigerians were resident in the United States and pleaded with first generation Nigerian immigrants to ensure that the later generation of Nigerians outside the shores of Nigeria are not lost.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, represented by the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, lauded Nigerians in the diaspora for making the country proud.
Onyeama thanked New York City for its generosity to Nigerians and urged Nigerians to continue to enrich the cultural diversity of the City and the United States.
He commended the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigeria (OAN) for their selfless service to the homeland through organising the parade for over three decades and for connecting the youth back to their Nigerian heritage.
The minister also commended the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija for efforts of the Consulate in improving services to Nigerians.
In his remarks, Egopija noted that the Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival has gained widespread acceptance among Nigerians from all walks of life.
“It is worthy of note that what started as a struggle to challenge negative stereotypes about our dear country and compatriots has since gained widespread acceptance and grown to become the largest gathering of Nigerians abroad.
“Consulate wishes to encourage Nigerians in all fields of endeavour to continue to distinguish themselves and be law-abiding.
“While exceling in our communities, let us take pride in educating our chidren and making them appreciate their rich Nigerian heritage.
“Consulate will not relent in efforts to improve services to all stakehoders within our jurisdiction,” Egopija said.
Timi Dakolo and Street Hop singer, Bright Goya popularly known as Goya Menor; Temilayo Abodurin, a 12-year old Saxophonist, among other artists, performed at the independence Day carnival.
Arugbo ojo. (Ancient of Days). Alewilese (He who speaks and acts). Alese lewi (He who acts and speaks). Awimayehun (He who cannot be contradicted). Adanimagbagbe (The Creator who never forgets His creation). Oyigiyigi (Great and Mighty God). Alagbada Ina (The God covered with fire).
Afunni ma s’iregun (The God who blesses without asking for a reward). Alagbawi eda (defender of mankind). Olowogbogboro (The one whose hand can reach everywhere). Ajasegun (The Conqueror). Oba t’ao ri, sugbon t’a ri ise owo re (The God who is unseen, but whose works are evident).
Atererekariaye (The God who covers the whole earth). Onise iyanu (Miracle worker). Atofarati (Our defense). Atorise (The God who can do it). Awamaridi (Unsearchable God). Ologojulo (The most glorious). Emi ni t’inje Emi ni (The I AM THAT I AM).
We confess Lord, that our sins are deeper than scarlet, but You can make them white as snow. Even though they are red like crimson, we plead that You make them as wool.
Our words and our deeds are against the Lord, defying His glorious presence. The look on our faces testifies against us. We parade our sins like Sodom; we do not even hide them.
We are in trouble and distress. We have brought disaster upon ourselves. Our leaders and governors lead us astray; they turn us from the path of life. We have ruined the vineyard of the Lord. The plunder from the poor is in our houses.
O Lord, our God, wash away the filth of our people. Cleanse the bloodstains.
We have raped innocent women. We have bombed the blameless. We have kidnaped the defenseless. We have oppressed the poor. We have ignored the fatherless. We have not fed the hungry.
We have not cared for the Lazarus at our gate. We have robbed the traveler. We have looted our treasuries. We have despised our birthright.
We have only yielded bad grapes in the Lord’s vineyard. We have drawn sin along with cords of deceit. We pulled wickedness as with cart ropes.
We call evil good and good evil. We put darkness for light and light for darkness. We put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. We have been wise in our own eyes and clever in our own sight.
Our judges have acquitted the guilty for a bribe. They have denied justice to the innocent. We have rejected the law of the Lord Almighty. We have spurned the word of the Holy One of Israel.
Our pastors and prophets teach lies. Our politicians have led us astray. Our leaders make unjust laws and issue oppressive decrees. They deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed. They make widows their prey and rob the fatherless.
You, O God, asked for justice but saw bloodshed. You called for righteousness but heard cries of distress.
We are like an oak with fading leaves, we are like a garden without water. The mountains are shaking all around us, and the dead bodies are becoming like refuse in the streets. Therefore, the grave has enlarged its appetite. It has opened its mouth without limit.
Our cities lie in ruins and without inhabitants. Our houses are left deserted. Our fields are ruined and ravaged. The Lord has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken.
Distressed and hungry, people all over Nigeria are roaming through the land; some are famished and are becoming enraged and, looking upward, they curse their leaders and their God. They look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they are thrust into utter darkness.
As in the day of Midian’s defeat, so it has been in these days of our distress. You will shatter the yoke that burdens us, the bar across our shoulders, the rod of our oppressor.
The Light of Israel has become a fire, our Holy One a flame; and in a single day it has burnt and consumed his thorns and his briers.
The lofty trees have been felled, and the tall ones have been brought low. Our God has cut down the forest thickets with an ax.
Nevertheless, we are looking for that day when the wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.
We know the Lord will bring it about when the cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox.
The infant will play near the hole of the cobra, and the young child will put his hand into the viper’s nest.
We know that they will neither harm nor destroy on all God’s holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.
Sokoto trembles; Zamfara flees. Cry out, O Daughter of Nigeria!
Listen, Lagos! Poor Owerri! Maiduguri is in flight; the people of Iwo take cover.
Help us, Lord, to beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks. Restore us, O Lord. Renew us, O Lord. Give us fresh hope and new beginnings, O Lord. Restore our judges, our politicians, our governors, our councilors, and our leaders. Make us the city of righteousness, the faithful city, according to your promise O Lord.
Redeem us with justice. Redeem our penitent ones with righteousness. Let nation not take up sword against nation anymore. Let us stop building up our armories and stop training for war.
O Lord, cause us to walk in the light of the Lord. Let the eyes of the arrogant man be humbled. Let the pride of men be brought low. Let the Lord alone be exalted.
For the day of the Lord of hosts shall come upon everything proud and lofty, upon everything lifted up and it shall be brought low. Upon all the irokos of Nigeria that are high and lifted up. Upon all the high mountains, and upon all the hills that are lifted up, Upon every high tower, and upon every fortified wall.
The Lord says to us with His strong hand upon us, warning us not to follow the way of these people. He says: “Do not call conspiracy everything that these people call conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear, and do not dread what they dread.”
The Lord Almighty is the one we are to regard as holy. He is the one we are to fear: He is the one we are to dread.
We will wait. We will wait for the Lord, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob. We will put our trust in him.
Here we are, and the children the Lord has given us. We are signs and symbols in Nigeria, in West Africa, in Africa from the Lord Almighty, who dwells on Mount Zion.
For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government is on His shoulders. And He is called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over His kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness for forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty has accomplished this.
Royal fathers, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige and the Inter-party Advisory Committee (IPAC) have urged Nigerians across geo-political zones to embrace peace, remain hopeful and work towards achieving credible elections in 2023.
They made the call on Saturday in Abuja on the occasion of Nigeria’s 62th Independence Day.
Alhaji Adamu Yunusa, the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Traditional Rulers, expressed gratitude to God for bringing the country this far.
According to the ruler, it is only when a nation enjoys peace that it can progress, pointing out that although Nigeria is moving forward it is being hindered in some other ways by the chaos in the society.
“I pray for God’s intervention in some of the difficulty areas such as the current ASUU strike, youth unemployment, among others.
“In this 2022 anniversary, we pray to Almighty Allah to help us in this country to solve some of the problems confronting us.
“First and foremost, is the issue of unemployment of our youths who are roaming about and we pray that God will help us to solve it.
Yunusa condemned the high level of corruption in the country and the insecurity, saying they were killing the entire system of governance and prayed God’s intervention.
According to him, if Nigeria can solve the problem of corruption, other problems will be solved, stressing that corruption is the major thing “killing the country,
Yunusa appealed to Nigerians to strive for peaceful elections next year, devoid of chaos.
Corroborating Yunusa’s views, Eze Chima of Umofor Kingdom in Imo said Nigeria was faring well except for the security challenges facing it.
He advised Nigerians to avoid unnecessary hatred and bigotry but rather to develop love amongst themselves.
“Where there is love, there will be peace and where there is peace, there will be development.
“I have always told Nigerians that if at all we must fight, let us fight hunger, poverty, diseases, as these things do not know who is a Moslem or Christian, who is Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba. In the same vein, if we must kill, let it be mosquitoes, ” he said.
On the forthcoming general elections, Chima advised the candidates and their political parties to place emphasis on issues bothering the country and how they would solve them, if elected.
Dr Chris Ngige , Minister of Labour and Employment, said that while the challenges facing Nigeria were not unique to it, the government was working to tackle them.
He expressed the hope that the current ASUU strike would soon be called off, adding “anything that has a beginning must have an end“.
“We are coming at the end of the road, we are looking at negotiations and judicial interventions, ’’ he said.
Mr Yabaji Sani, Chairman of the Inter-party Advisory Committee (IPAC) and the presidential candidate of Action Democratic Party (ADP) said it was high time the nation got it right in all the sectors, especially the 2023 elections.
“It is our time to get it right in this country because Nigeria is great and the founding fathers of this country believed in this country. They knew we have what it takes in terms of resources, in terms of human capital.
“ We have a dynamic youth population, we can see how passionate the youths have been since the beginning of this electioneering process.
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