Achieving greatness in Nigeria is paved with the values of honesty, sincerity, and integrity, alongside merit.
By Abayomi Odunowo.
The only thing that is really lacking in our country that we must imbibe so that our country will move forward is honesty, sincerity and integrity. These three values are essential for the growth and development of any nation, and without them, progress becomes difficult if not impossible. When these values are embraced at all levels of society, from the family unit to the highest levels of government, the impact can be truly transformative.
In recent years, Nigeria has been plagued by corruption and mismanagement of public funds. This has hindered the country’s development and progress, as resources that should be used for the benefit of all are instead siphoned off by a few individuals for their own personal gain. The recent case of the former Governor of Kogi state being accused of mismanaging N80 billion Naira is a stark reminder of the consequences of dishonesty and lack of integrity in leadership.
It is truly disheartening to see a leader who was entrusted with the responsibility of governing a state behave in such a manner. Instead of defending himself and being transparent about his actions, he is running around trying to evade accountability. This not only reflects poorly on him as an individual but also on the people of Kogi state who put their trust in him to lead them towards progress and development.
As a youth who rose to power at a relatively young age, this former Governor had the opportunity to set a positive example for the younger generation. He could have shown that it is possible to lead with honesty, sincerity, and integrity, and that by doing so, he could make a real difference in the lives of the people he served. Unfortunately, his actions have done the opposite, causing harm and bringing shame to his state.
Moving forward, it is imperative that we as a nation prioritize these values – honesty, sincerity, and integrity – in all aspects of our lives. From our leaders to our families, from our businesses to our communities, we must uphold these principles and hold ourselves and others accountable when they are not followed. Only then can we truly move forward as a country and reach our full potential.
The case of the former Governor of Kogi state serves as a stark reminder of the importance of honesty, sincerity, and integrity in leadership. It is only when we embrace these values wholeheartedly that we can truly progress and thrive as a nation. Let us learn from this example and strive to be better, for the sake of our country and future generations.
Although I know and believe that Nigerian youths have the potential, honesty, and integrity to lead our country into a brighter future, the question still remains: Can we truly trust that Nigerian youths can take us to the promised land? This is a question that needs to be addressed by Nigerian youths themselves.
Throughout my interactions and experiences with Nigerian youths, I have witnessed their passion, intelligence, and drive to create positive change in our society. From community service projects to entrepreneurship ventures, Nigerian youths are actively seeking ways to make a difference. However, it is also clear that the road to transformation is not an easy one.
One of the challenges facing Nigerian youths is the lack of opportunities for leadership and growth. Many talented and capable individuals are often overlooked in favor of those with connections or wealth. This has created a system where true leadership potential is often stifled, and opportunistic leaders are given the spotlight.
Furthermore, the proliferation of churches and mosques in our society has not always translated to positive change. While religion can be a source of inspiration and morality, it is not a substitute for good governance and effective leadership. We need to move beyond simply relying on faith and start identifying and nurturing true leaders who can steer our country in the right direction.
It is important for Nigerian youths to come together and collectively address these challenges. We need to hold ourselves and each other accountable, and strive to create a society where merit and integrity are valued above all else. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, we can begin to build a brighter future for our country.
As we navigate the complexities of our political landscape, it is crucial that Nigerian youths remain vigilant and proactive. We must resist the temptation to follow in the footsteps of opportunistic leaders, and instead, strive to uphold the values of honesty, integrity, and service to our fellow citizens.
In conclusion, while the path to a better Nigeria may be fraught with challenges, I firmly believe that Nigerian youths have the capacity and potential to lead us to the promised land. By coming together, standing up for what is right, and working towards a common goal, we can create a future that we can all be proud of. The time for change is now, and it is up to Nigerian youths to seize the opportunity and shape a brighter tomorrow.
Media Contacts
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
URL: www.aatsg.org.ng
Tel: +2349053535322
Email: nchairman@aatsg.org.ng
