A Dream of Nigeria’s Resplendent Future: Beyond the Slumber

DOUGH ONAH
3 min readOct 1, 2023

Will Nigeria ever surpass its past greatness, or is it destined to continue its decline?

I wish to have been born into Nigeria in an era when this mighty nation, currently in slumber, finally awakens to embrace its destiny as a global powerhouse and influencer. No, not in today’s Nigeria, where suffering often hides behind every smile, where the abundance of natural resources starkly contrasts with the indifference of its people. I envision a glorious Nigeria, the cradle of a fresh and awe-inspiring civilization, led by leaders who grasp the true meaning of service, in stark contrast to the impoverished leaders we currently endure, whose lifetime of scarcity drives them to voracious acts of corruption.

The State House Abuja — Federal Republic of Nigeria

I dream of a Nigeria where the bright lights of cities like Kano, Lagos, Enugu, Abuja, and Calabar outshine the stars in the night sky. These cities would stand as testaments to our rich history and bold future, adorned with grand architecture. Their residents would be creators, inventors, thinkers, and producers, shaping the world we all share.

My wish is to be born into Nigeria when our educational system, steeped in ancestral wisdom, becomes a global benchmark for excellence. Our schools and universities would be epicenters of innovation and critical thinking, nurturing a new generation of leaders who guide the world with sagacity and humanity, in stark contrast to the present offerings from the West.

I long for the day when our majestic rivers and waterfalls become the lifeblood of our nation, irrigating vitality into every corner of our land. These natural wonders would cease to be mere waterways and instead stand as symbols of our independence and prosperity.

I yearn for an era when our culture, traditions, music, love for God, and arts flourish, captivating the world with their beauty and depth. Our rhythms, like the rumba that beats in our hearts, would become the anthems of humanity.

I hope to witness Nigeria’s natural resources benefit its people foremost. When oil, groundnut, coal, iron ore, gold, and diamonds cease to symbolize corruption and exploitation but instead underpin our prosperity, fostering economic growth that elevates every Nigerian.

I desire to be born into Nigeria when our cries of suffering transform into songs of triumph, echoing through every street, home, and heart. The name Nigeria would evoke images of talent, skill, genius, strength, resources, resilience, happiness, prosperity, and hope.

Yes, I yearn to have been born into Nigeria in an era when this cherished land ascends to global prominence, radiating as a beacon of light in a world in dire need of it.

Alas, I was born before this epic, an almost lost generation with decaying values across all fronts. Where brother turns against brother alike while we fight tooth and nail for our children to live in a better Nigeria even though it seems unlikely! Regardless, Long live Nigeria at 63 as we continue to hope in despair! 😔

Adapted from “Congo @63” by my esteemed friend and colleague, Ezbora Lubamba of the Afrika Youth Movement!

--

--

DOUGH ONAH

A research and communications professional with over six years of experience developing strategic communication, advocacy, & implementing global youth research.