On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen.
I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria.
My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few.
Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite.
Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions.
But history tells a different story.
Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, political party, ethnic group, or privileged class. Nigeria belongs to those who continue the difficult struggle of building her.
The nation belongs to those who sacrifice, create, teach, farm, write, trade, innovate, and contribute to her progress.
Over the years, I have listened carefully as both former and current leaders advised Nigerians who are frustrated with the country to visit other African nations. Beyond politics, there is a lesson hidden in those statements. They are reminding us, perhaps indirectly, of the enormous labour invested by generations before us and the foundation that continues to sustain opportunities for millions.
For all her imperfections, Nigeria remains one of the most influential nations on the African continent. Across Africa, many nations still look toward Nigeria's direction because they understand that the fortunes of Africa are often connected to the fortunes of its largest black nation.
When Nigeria rises, Africa rises. When Nigeria struggles, Africa feels the impact.
This is why I find it ironic that many people spend their days predicting the collapse of the nation while simultaneously pursuing their dreams within it. We criticize Nigeria in the morning, seek opportunities from her in the afternoon, and pray for her prosperity at night. Deep down, most Nigerians still believe. Perhaps that belief is what keeps us going.
Loving Nigeria does not mean pretending that her problems do not exist. It does not mean ignoring corruption, insecurity, poverty, or political manipulation. Patriotism is not blindness. Genuine love for a nation requires the courage to confront its flaws while refusing to surrender hope.
Nigeria is undoubtedly a complex country. Political gimmicks often create division. Tribal sentiments sometimes threaten unity. Distrust frequently overshadows cooperation. Yet despite these challenges, millions continue to find opportunities, build businesses, raise families, pursue education, and achieve greatness on this soil.
The heroes of our past did not fight because Nigeria was perfect.
They fought because they believed she was worth fighting for.
Their sacrifices purchased possibilities for future generations. Our responsibility is not merely to enjoy those sacrifices but to extend them.
The power to shape Nigeria does not belong only to those in government. It belongs to every citizen. It belongs to the teacher shaping young minds, the journalist defending truth, the entrepreneur creating jobs, the student pursuing knowledge, and the citizen choosing integrity over shortcuts.
Most importantly, it belongs to those who understand the power of words.
A nation is built twice: first in the minds of its people and then in reality. That is why I urge Nigerians to begin using their tongues to build rather than destroy. Speak solutions. Speak possibilities. Speak unity. Speak progress. Criticize where necessary, but never become an ambassador of hopelessness.
Democracy is not merely about voting every four years. It is about participating in the continuous construction of a national dream.
So, although I wanted to rest my pen today, Nigeria would not let me. And perhaps that is because the work of nation-building is not yet finished.
Abioye Tosin Lawrence,
Publisher Oriontimes Online Newspaper.
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