Rediscovering Nigeria’s Potential Beyond Democracy Day

By Favour Udezue

Today, Nigeria is marking her Democracy Day after 25 years devoid of military intervention. This brings to light a much needed question- What is next for Nigeria’s Democracy. It is vital for Nigerians, government and the governed, alike, to sit back and reflect on the nation’s history, the efforts of heroes past and the innumerable potentials ingrained in our nation’s rich soil.

These potentials go beyond the horizon of nature. They encompass several other resources and entities. Like a seed, within them lie the true capacity of Nigeria, the Giant of Africa which she ought to be. Her cultural diversity and uniqueness, her vast population, the Nigerian Spirit, the giftedness of Nigerians, various industries, her financial resources and vast historical background all point to the good fruits which Nigeria can bear.

But poverty and hardship never cease from ravaging Nigeria’s populace and the development of Nigeria seems to continually fluctuate like her unsteady power supply. Unemployment has found a permanent stake, insecurity of all forms are regular threats to Nigerians, corruption is, perhaps, one of the most popular phenomenon.

Can we fully mention the problems of Nigeria? Can we box her plights in a single book? Nigeria has truly been through untold turbulence and viscissitudes. Her malaise is almost incurable. Her grass seems to lose its greeness more and more, as time ticks. No wonder the percentage Nigerians seeking for greener pastures goes up the scale on a regular basis.

Regardless of this, we can’t fold our arms or stand akimbo, staring at our nation sheepishly or indifferently. We must rise up to build Nigera, and building, requires that we rediscover Nigeria’s potential, our potential.

Nigeria is blessed with the richness of natural resources. This is one fact that is incontestable. The abundant well of crude oil, tin, iron ore, limestone and arable soil are some of nature’s extended hands of mercy to Nigeria. In the words of Theodore Roosevelt, a one-time US President, “The conservation of natural resources and their proper use constitute the fundamental problem which underlies almost every other problem of our national life.”

Whether we acknowledge it or not, Nigeria’s wealthy natural resources is a great potential. If only Nigerians would see this, invest in it and make maximum use of it, then the country can experience her turning point.

Another great potential of our nation is her vast and gifted population. The citizens of any country are the individuals that make that country what it is. With a population as  large as 218 million, Nigeria sure, has an advantage over less populated countries. This basically borders on the fact that each of these people has unique giftings that can advance national development. Thus, the more people, the more giftings.

The likes of Chinua Achebe, Anthony Joshua, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and  Aliko Dangote are examples of Nigerians whose potentials were developed. These people, not only contribute to national development, but equally represent the nation beyond national frontiers.

Democracy is all about the people. Hence, concerted efforts must be channelled by the government and citizens towards discovering and developing human potential.

In  line with the population of Nigeria  is her cultural diversity and uniqueness. Culture has popularly been defined as the total way of life of particular group of people. It comprises of language, religion, food and dressing. Nigeria has over 300 ethnic groups, each with their unique cultural practices. The diversity of culture is a gem to Nigeria. It allows Nigerians to give different expressions of their Nigerianness.

Next, is the Nigerian Spirit. We can say that it is the Spirit that every Nigerian has. It is that Spirit of resilience and commitment to excellence that dwells in every Nigerian. This trait is an asset to the Nigerian society. Efficient maximization of the Nigerian Spirit spells a brighter and better future for Nigeria’s Democracy.

In the same vein, Nigeria is a country that has multiple industries. Business industry, arts and entertainment industry, the agriculture industry, fashion industry, education industry and a robust financial sector. We should not just boast in having the largest African film industry or good agricultural resources; we must equally pay attention to them and be intentional about effectively managing these sectors for the common good of the populace.

Against this backdrop, it is clear that our dearest nation, Nigeria, coupled with its rich historical background, is a hub of many great potentials which when properly harnessed, would make our Democracy a thriving force. So, let us- individuals and government- not only lament our challenges but also look inward for that seed of greatness that lies within, plant it and watch it flourish into that Great Giant of Africa.

Favour Udezue is a final year student of Mass Communication at Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria. Email: favourudezue@gmail.com