After the inauguration ceremony of the new administration, the new president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that he would hit the ground running. In less than 24 hours, the whole Nigeria began to feel the heat with the instant and unplanned removal of the fuel subsidy. We may not judge the new government with the latest development but Nigerians have prepared themselves for greater and new challenges in the coming years. The reason for this is not far-fetched.
The outgone government did not make life any easier for Nigerians. And because of the state of the economy and institutions of governance, it was projected that the incoming administration will face a lot of hurdles. This is not to say that things will never get better but the facts, analysis and structure of governance will always make things difficult for the common Nigerian citizens. Rather than lose hope, faith and strength, citizens have encouraged themselves to face whatever the future holds for them. During the issue-based campaigns for the February 25 Presidential Elections, the ruling party proved that they must win the election despite all odds with their body language.
Former promises made were not kept nor fulfilled and they did not bother making fresh promises to Nigerians. It will not be wise for the new government to chase shadows by clamping down on various agitations or other protests bordering on hardship and suffering. It will be a grave injustice for the new administration to stir up unnecessary provocation or poison the minds of Nigerians against anybody. Nigerians are united in suffering and pain; they have braced up for the future even the worst. There is a song of ‘great escape’. Everyone think of how to escape further eventualities, searching for an escape route. Many are wishing for a survival strategy. There are sighs everywhere amongst the low-income earners.
The whole world is filled with heartaches, troubles, war, and economic meltdown. Apart from whatever the world has to offer, victory is assured. The trials and tribulations may be far too many but there is an assurance of winning if we suffer well. Nigerians no longer place their hope on what the future holds or what the government can do for them or the educational system or plans or organization. So many Nigerians are beginning to ‘japa’. A lot of Nigerians are restless, having no country to call their own. Nigerians are prepared and have changed their focus, hope and trust.
Every worthwhile venture follows a pattern in order to achieve set goals. The ruling party- APC, already has a pattern which every Nigerian know and understand. The building of a great nation might not come as it is often said. Political leaders must have the mindset and willingness to build a nation. Our leaders even politicians should learn to show compassion, care and concern to the poor masses. Nigerians should not allow murmurings, complaining and grumbling to dry up their lives and resources. We all have been kept alive to witness these stages in our journey to nationhood. Nigerians must hold every elected official accountable for their actions.
Nigerians must join or support advocacy groups that align with their values and work towards responsible governance. Even as INEC and some agencies of the government have refused to give access to public information (especially in the ongoing presidential election petition tribunal), financial disclosures, it will be hard for Nigerians to achieve transparency or fight corruption. Nigerians must remember that responsible government is a shared responsibility between citizens and elected officials. By actively engaging in the political process, advocating for transparency and accountability, and staying informed, citizens can help create an environment that encourages responsible governance.
Finally, we can always have something to hang on to. It does not just end in “do your best’, try to patch it up’, or do what you can”. When preparation meets opportunity, it is success. Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Prioritize activities that promote self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, practicing mindfulness or meditation, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities you enjoy. While it may be challenging, try to maintain a positive mindset and cultivate resilience.
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Focus on finding silver linings, celebrating small victories, and looking for opportunities for personal growth and learning. Break down your challenges into smaller, manageable goals. By setting achievable targets, you can maintain motivation and a sense of progress, even in difficult circumstances. Use challenging times as an opportunity to learn and acquire new skills. Look for online courses, workshops, or training programs that can enhance your knowledge and make you more adaptable to changing circumstances. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life, no matter how small. Take time each day to reflect on things you are grateful for.
This practice can help shift your perspective and boost your overall well-being. Look for ways to empower yourself and take control of your situation. This can include seeking education or training to improve your employability, exploring entrepreneurship, or finding ways to contribute to your community through volunteer work or activism. Remember that challenging times are temporary, and situations can improve. Hold onto hope and believe in your ability to overcome difficulties.
Seek inspiration from stories of resilience and perseverance. As prices of goods and services soar, many have resorted to trekking while some younger adults wrap each other in mini-buses as a survival strategy. Nevertheless, Christian believers have taken solace from the words in the holy book which states: strengthen yourselves and continue in the faith; that you may through many hardships and suffering enter the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). Nigerians are prepared and they do have hope – the hope of a new Nigeria. It is possible to have a brand new country and that is why Nigerians are so full of hope and expectancy. And Nigeria believes in you and I.
