On 1 October 2021, as Nigerians marked another Independence Day, The Benjamin Feyijimi Initiative brought citizens together for an important conversation about the country’s future.
The 2021 edition of the Nigeria & I event was held at De-Vine International Hotels and Suites, Meridian, Apata, Ibadan, under the theme:
“The Nigeria of Our Dreams.”
Hosted by Benjamin Feyijimi, the event encouraged participants to look beyond Nigeria’s difficulties and imagine the peaceful, prosperous and inclusive country they want to build.
Imagining a Better Nigeria
Every meaningful change begins with a vision.
For Nigeria to make sustainable progress, its citizens must first be able to imagine a nation where leadership is responsible, institutions are effective and every person has a fair opportunity to succeed.
“The Nigeria of Our Dreams” invited participants to describe the country they desire, not only in terms of infrastructure and economic growth, but also through values such as integrity, justice, unity, accountability and compassion.
The event created a space for participants to reflect on Nigeria’s condition while discussing practical ways citizens can contribute to national development.
From Independence to Responsibility
Independence Day is often celebrated with speeches, ceremonies and national colours. However, it should also be a time to assess the country’s progress and consider the responsibilities that come with citizenship.
Nigeria’s future cannot depend solely on elected officials. It will also be shaped by the everyday decisions of its citizens.
Building a better country requires Nigerians who are willing to act with integrity, respect others, protect public resources, participate in their communities and hold leaders accountable.
The Nigeria & I event reminded participants that citizenship is not passive. Every Nigerian has a role to play in creating the country they hope to see.
Amplifying Diverse Voices
The event featured guest speakers including Dandy, Raping Dady, Ojo Aderemi and Gboyega Micheal Tokunbo.
Through different perspectives and experiences, the gathering provided an opportunity to examine Nigeria’s challenges and identify possibilities for progress.
Conversations like this are important because no individual or group has all the answers to the country’s problems. Nigeria’s development requires collaboration among young people, professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs, civil society organisations and public officials.
By bringing people together, the initiative helped to promote dialogue instead of division and participation instead of indifference.
Giving Young People a Place in Nigeria’s Future
Young Nigerians make up a significant part of the country’s population. Their energy, creativity and ideas will play a defining role in determining Nigeria’s future.
However, young people must be given opportunities to participate in national conversations and understand their capacity to lead.
The Nigeria & I 2021 event encouraged them to see themselves as more than future leaders. They are also present-day contributors who can create meaningful change within their schools, workplaces and communities.
Leadership begins with taking responsibility wherever one is found. A young person does not need to hold political office before solving a community problem, supporting another person or standing for what is right.
Turning Dreams Into Action
Imagining a better Nigeria is important, but a dream can only become reality when it is supported by deliberate action.
The Nigeria of our dreams will be built through responsible leadership, quality education, active citizenship, strong institutions and opportunities that allow every Nigerian to thrive.
It will also require citizens who are prepared to replace cynicism with participation and division with cooperation.
Through the 2021 Nigeria & I event, The Benjamin Feyijimi Initiative reinforced its commitment to meaningful national conversations and encouraged Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s future.
The Nigeria of our dreams is possible, but building it is a responsibility shared by us all.
Event Highlight
