THE SPIRIT OF NAIJA

In the heart of the west coast of Africa lies a very unique and exciting group of people. Each time they step out in action, they wave their magic wand and shock the world. From soccer to banking, information technology to literature, arts to music and in every other thing that catches their fancy they are a force to reckon with. More intriguing is the fact that they achieve this feat despite tough conditions. They are the largest population of black people in the world. They are called NIGERIANS.
What makes Nigerians thick? This question is easily answered when one takes a look at the chord that binds them together (NIGERIA). Naija in local parlance is a land blessed with every good thing a man can think of. The extra spice that makes Nigeria a delicious pot of soup to foreigners is the “THE SPIRIT OF NAIJA.” This refers to the set of values that shapes the belief system of the average Nigerian. This in turn determines our reaction to situations that come our way either individually or as a nation.
Firstly, the average Nigerian is a highly motivated individual. We belief that with patience, hard work, dedication and God on your side every individual is able to succeed in his/her chosen endeavour. As such, we are always ready to put in whatever it takes to achieve our goals. We also believe the future is bright despite our present condition. This hope greatly increases our ability to endure hardship without taking our eyes off our aspirations. Our doggedness and never say die attitude has being a constant source of amazement to other nationalities. We succeed most of the times by refusing to give up on our dreams despite unpleasant occurrences. W know that when the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
In some circles, it is said that the litmus test of the strength of a nation’s economy is the number of Nigerians involved in the economic activities of the said nation. This is because we are highly industrious who can spot a good opportunity miles afar. When we do this, we are known to grab them with both hands and legs if possible. As a result, many developing countries freely grant Nigerians residence in their country with the assurance of our positive contribution to the development of their country. On their part, Nigerians never disappoint as we continually produce top leaders in every industry. (Nollywood is proof that the world should pay attention when we show interest in anything). When we rise, YOU IGNORE US AT YOUR OWN PERIL.
As a people we are warm, friendly and welcoming. We love life and do our best to live it in full. This increases our ability to be happy despite great tribulations. We are so happy a people that we have been adjudged the happiest people on earth. Therefore, suicide is almost non- existent in our communities. Moreover, you cannot degenerate to the state where you want to take your life before someone reaches out to help. Many time people wonder why we have not broken up as a nation despite numerous leadership challenges. My answer is that the spirit of Naija does not resort to chaos as a means of dispute resolution.
Speaking of challenges, we are besieged with them in large numbers. For instance the success drive in Nigerians has pushed some of our young ones into drugs, cyber crime, robbery and other vices. Though we are sometimes at a crossroads, I believe that the elements of the spirit of Naija is powerful enough to lead us into lasting solutions. The way forward is to continually project the values of the Nigerian spirit. We should also endeavour to act in accordance with those values always and honour Nigerians that excel using the values of the Nigerian spirit.
In conclusion, our pride and joy lies in the indomitable spirit of Naija. Let us rise in this spirit and reclaim our lost title of “THE GIANT OF AFRICA”
LONG LIVE THE FEDRAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.