This morning, my husband, our children and I, sang the Nigerian National Anthem. As often as I try to be intentional about life and living, I sang it unconsciously this time; giving very little attention to the meaning of what we sang. Then I sang “Nigeria’s call Obey” and something in me broke.
Like a moving picture, my life flashed before my eyes – frame by frame; piece by piece; episode by episode; series by series; season by season. All of the stability I have enjoyed throughout my life was only made possible because of the peace that Nigeria has enjoyed since my birth. Yes there have been rumours of wars, divisions, outcries, slaughters resulting from tribal fighting, religious onslaughts and even terrorism. Some of these events may have gone, but the scars left behind are tangible; a reminder of the burdens we had to bear.
I recall the many people that I have lost to road accidents; not to speed but due to bad roads and poor lighting, persons who died because they couldn’t get to the hospital in time because of traffic congestion, those who managed to get to the hospitals in time did not make it because of the deploring state of our hospitals.
It is hard to take my eyes off the current state of my Nation – a place where corruption is endemic. It is difficult not to remember the spate of challenges that exist in our legislature, judiciary and among the executives.
Yes we seem more divided than united.
The current realities cannot stop me from choosing to heed Nigeria’s call. I have chosen to obey her call. Her call to serve with heart and might; to walk in truth and honesty even when it means taking the unpopular stand.
To live even more intentionally.
To communicate love, peace, poise, confidence with the utmost respect. To air my point of view with regard for the differences that others may have about the same subject.
I pledge to love my country.
I pledge to teach my children to be committed to living just and true.
I celebrate the diversity that exists among us as a people. I choose to rejoice over the positive things that unite us.
I acknowledge our heroes past. I acknowledge professionals, entrepreneurs and all persons in the formal and informal sector. I acknowledge the noble persons across various spheres, leading and making constructive changes in our narrative. Thank you for helping us to unlearn what does not serve us and relearn what is important. With you the Nigerian dream is being born – a haven of intellectual properties birthing solutions, a people of dignity and order, a tribe of love.
God bless us, everyone.
We are Nigeira.
God bless Nigeria!
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