I find it interesting, the change that is resulting present day in the continent of Africa. It is time overdue in my mind, that citizens of the continent started rising up and fighting for their rights and the opportunity to life, peace and the pursuit of happiness. Since the colonial actors departure in the mid 20th century, the ethnic divide they created and the social, political and economic problems they left behind has led to increased instability in the continent.
In the case of Nigeria, a country which I am from and proud to claim, there are many ethnic groups, the three main being the Yoruba, the Igbos and the Hausas. The Hausa people are primarily Northerners and Muslim while the Igbos and Yorubas are located mainly in the West, East and South and tend to be Christians. There have been very few cases where we have enjoyed Democratic rule, because in most cases military coups end up in power, or Dictatorships end up being the form of rule. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, the eighth most populous country in the world, and the most populous country in the world in which the majority of the population is black.
Even though the country (Nigeria), is top ten supplier of Oil to the United States, and also very rich in natural resources such as coal, iron ore and natural gas, it is still very poor. Naira to Dollar ratio is 150 to 1, when 30 or so years ago, it was 1 to 1. I can continue on and on, but the point is, accountability and strong leadership is needed in Africa. Corruption and Nepotism needs to disappear and be replaced by fair and just rule. African leaders need to understand that the title of President is not the same as Chief. You are not accountable to just those whom youve known for a very long time or grew up with, but to an entire Nation who elected you to be their representative. Also that if put in a position of Power and they do not do what's in the best interests of the people, the same situation happening in Egypt & Tunisia will result and they will be ousted.
*The days of corruption, self enrichment and cronyism are over, this is a new decade and Africa deserves better*
- Dips'
Well said brother, if I have anything to add it's that we as the youth must realize that our time is at hand. The future is right around the corner and it is imperative that we start taking actions for the welfare of not only our beloved country but all of Africa. Until we understand the mistakes of our fathers and begin taking strides to rectify them immediately, we are doom to fall into the same traps and the vicious cycle will countinue. We need Unity now more than ever. The future depends on it.
ReplyDeleteChukwuma, you definitely have a solid point bro and that is the 'Youth' now have to take up this cause. It might be too late for our fathers and elders to impart any great change because they might one not only be stuck in their ways, but two also have been conditioned to behave and think a certain way and that might now be too hard to change.
ReplyDeleteAnother great point you made is that the 'Past' needs to be understood in order for the 'Future' to suceed. *Good Word*