On 1 October 2020, The Benjamin Feyijimi Initiative brought Nigerians together for the 2020 edition of its Nigeria & I programme.
Held at De-Vine International Hotels and Suites, Meridian, Apata, Ibadan, the event was organised around the theme:
“The Nigeria We Want.”
Taking place on Nigeria’s 60th Independence anniversary, the programme offered participants an opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey and discuss the kind of nation Nigerians want to build.
Defining the Nigeria We Want
People often speak about wanting a better Nigeria, but meaningful change requires a clearer understanding of what “better” should look like.
Is it a Nigeria where every child can access quality education?
Is it a country where young people can find opportunities, build businesses and pursue their ambitions?
Is it a nation defined by responsible leadership, justice, security and accountable institutions?
The Nigeria & I 2020 programme encouraged participants to move beyond identifying the country’s problems and begin defining a shared vision for its future.
Sixty Years of Independence
Nigeria’s 60th Independence anniversary represented an important moment for national reflection.
Since gaining independence in 1960, the country has experienced significant political, economic and social changes. Nigerians have also made remarkable contributions in business, education, entertainment, technology, sports and other fields.
Despite these achievements, the country continues to face major challenges, including unemployment, insecurity, poverty, corruption, inequality and inadequate infrastructure.
The event provided a platform to recognise Nigeria’s progress while honestly confronting the issues preventing the country from reaching its full potential.
Creating Space for Meaningful Dialogue
Nigeria & I 2020 featured personalities and speakers from different professional and social backgrounds, creating room for diverse perspectives on citizenship and national development.
Such conversations are necessary because building a better Nigeria requires contributions from every part of society.
Young people, professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders, creatives and public officials must be willing to exchange ideas and work together towards common goals.
By creating a platform for dialogue, The Benjamin Feyijimi Initiative helped participants understand that national development is a collective responsibility.
The Role of Young Nigerians
Young people are central to the Nigeria we want.
Their creativity, energy and willingness to challenge existing systems can help transform the country. However, lasting change requires more than passion. It also requires discipline, knowledge, integrity and a commitment to service.
The programme encouraged young Nigerians to recognise their ability to influence society through their careers, businesses, communities and everyday decisions.
They do not have to wait until they receive political appointments or occupy prominent positions before contributing to national development. Leadership can begin with solving a local problem, supporting a community initiative or choosing to act responsibly.
From Conversation to Action
Discussing the Nigeria we want is an important beginning, but conversations must eventually produce action.
A better Nigeria will require responsible leaders and active citizens. It will require people who reject corruption, demand accountability, respect the rights of others and use their skills to improve their communities.
The country Nigerians desire cannot be built by hope alone. It must be created through deliberate choices and consistent collective effort.
Through Nigeria & I 2020, The Benjamin Feyijimi Initiative reinforced a simple but powerful message:
The responsibility for building the Nigeria we want belongs to every one of us.
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