A CALL TO ALL NIGERIANS

Oh Nigeria, my father's land, how far have you fallen? O Giant of Africa, where are your mighty claws and strength? If our forefathers could witness the tribulations that plague Nigeria today, they would find no rest in their graves. Especially the five heroes who tirelessly fought for our independence – Obafemi Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa, Nnamdi Azikwe, Murtala Muhammed, and Aguyi Ironsi. If we could resurrect them to see the beloved nation they sacrificed their all for, they would weep until their graves overflowed with tears.

During an interview with Oluwabukunmi, a finalist regarding our country's state, she expressed, "This is not the Nigeria our past heroes envisioned. This is not the vision they had for our nation." The Colonial Masters, it seems, never tire of mocking us, reciting the poem: "Leave them alone, let them be, men lost to shame, to honor lost. Servant kinglets warring against themselves, while their masters sit back, amused. Leave them alone, let them be."

Adesuwa, a freshman discussing our nation's plight, shared poetic words: "Oh Nigeria, when will you regain your senses? When will you distinguish truth from lies? When will you exercise sound judgment? When will you embrace love and shed tribalism and religious divisions to focus on humanity? When will you unite and abandon division? When will you realize we are connected, sharing the same roots? We are one!"

We must embrace love, forsake selfish desires, and reject tribalism, for it has no place in Nigeria (Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba – WE ARE ONE!!). We must eliminate diversity in our hearts (Christianity, Islam, Traditionalism – WE ARE ONE!!). We should resist separation tactics because the heroes who secured Nigeria's freedom were from diverse religions and tribes, yet they united for a common cause.

This is a call to all Nigerians to prioritize the nation's progress. For Nigeria to thrive, each of us has a role to play. Let us nurture habits of mutual support, cooperation, peace, and unity. A united country is a prosperous and influential one. Astonishingly, everyone I asked had one common message: "WE ARE ONE."

They repeated it, "We are one, we are one." Indeed, we are one, and this understanding must permeate every Nigerian's heart.

Moreover, it's essential to recognize that Nigeria's potential is not just historical but also in its rich cultural diversity. Nigeria is a tapestry of languages, traditions, and beliefs. Imagine the beauty and strength that arise from such diversity when harnessed for the common good. Our differences should not divide us but enrich our collective identity.

As Nigerians, we have a responsibility to honor the legacy of our heroes by building on their dreams. We must engage in open dialogue, listen to one another, and find common ground. Only through open and respectful communication can we bridge the gaps that have divided us for too long.

Education is another cornerstone of progress. We must invest in our educational system to empower our youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead Nigeria into a brighter future. Education transcends tribal, religious, and regional boundaries. It is the path to unity and progress.

I believe a day will come when I can proudly proclaim, "This is my father's land, and I am a proud citizen of this country." I believe Nigeria can regain its greatness once more.

In conclusion, let our actions reflect the unity we speak of. Let us come together as one people, one nation, and one Nigeria, rising above our differences to shape a future that does justice to the sacrifices of our heroes. With determination, love, and unwavering faith in our nation's potential, we can lift Nigeria to the heights it was destined to reach. Together, as one, we will see Nigeria's true greatness shine once more.