Nigerians abroad vs. what we are
Abroad, they label Nigeria as one of the most dangerous, unsafe countries in the world, ranked 3rd in global internet crimes, they arrest and kill hundreds of her citizens around the world on the charges of drug trafficking. Even our brothers, South Africans faulted Nigerians for crime syndicates in their country. And for all these, they have evidence.
Some Nigerians in Diaspora are without doubt given the country bad names by engaging in criminal activities, making foreigners see the Green-White-Green for what is not, overshadowing global relevance and good impact of honourable Nigerians and defining us as people with reputation of criminality. The question thus, is Nigeria really as they say it is? Do these people represent the value of the country?
Contrary to the statement of Mr President that Nigerians are giving the country bad names abroad, they are in the minority and they do not represent the values of our country, so where do we classify them if not as ours? How would they (foreigners) call them if not Naija person? Their dirt is ours to share and if measures are not put in place, future generations will have no good Nigeria name to bear.
We need not attribute this defamation to any tribe, the solution does not lie there. Nigeria belongs to all of us, her image is ours and it is you and I’s responsibility to honour its dignity. Let’s check on our brethrens in Diaspora, remind them of the honour, valor, dignity and integrity of where they come from and show them it is their task to protect the character of the present and future Nigeria.
Just a reminder, April, 2019, the GreenWhite-Green Nigerian flag was hoisted by the American Multinational company, Stericycle Inc in honour of hardworking 38 years old Mrs Omolanke Shelle. If that does not define well enough the intellectual s upremacy and innovative capabilities of Nigerians, how about the hustling Ufot Ekong who broke 50years record of Tokai University in Japan. There are many of such nobles from various tribes and culture in the country.
Let’s create Nigeria that we and coming generations will not be reluctant to be identify with. Remember: True Nigerian, in his action and character will strive to make the nation proud.
Oyelakin Saheed, Bayero University, Kano oyelakinsaheed56@gmail.com