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“While government policies and economic reforms seem far away from easing the hardships faced by many, we are at that time when Nigerians must hold on to these qualities and communities to ensure we survive the tide legally and peacefully. The challenges may seem insurmountable at times, but the Nigerian spirit has repeatedly shown that it cannot be broken.”
This is, apparently, not a good time to be a Nigerian living in Nigeria. As it seems
the more we wake up each day, our life gets twice as hard. Hardship is spread
wide and far the land unconnected from the economic reforms the government
has been undertaking, with the promise that they will yield the best results in
the long run.
While the end of the long run is unknown, Nigerians are drained of hope already, and barely surviving each day as they come, it is important that the message of resilience and optimism be resounded; as truth be told, while the time is tough, it won’t be like this forever.
Resilience is one of the qualities Nigerians are known to have. It is evident in how the people adapt to constantly shifting tides. The informal sector, comprising small-scale traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs, has become the backbone of many communities, with individuals finding creative ways to survive and provide for their families. Markets are full of life, not only because
people are trading goods, but because they are trading hope, investing in the future one transaction at a time. This resilience stems from a collective belief that better days lie ahead, despite the difficulties of today.
Likewise, we have seen economic hardship in Nigeria breed a population of problem solvers. In the face of adversity, the Nigerian youth have particularly risen to the occasion, demonstrating innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in ways that inspire optimism. From the rise of tech startups to the increasing prominence of small businesses, young Nigerians are reimagining the country’s
economic landscape. They are creating opportunities where there seem to be
none, taking advantage of digital platforms to expand their reach beyond traditional borders, and building networks that enable collaboration and support. These efforts speak volumes about the determination of a generation that believes in a brighter future, regardless of present circumstances.
Optimism in Nigeria is often cultivated through community. The power of family, friendship, and local networks has sustained many households during times of financial difficulty. People come together, share resources, and offer mutual support, recognizing that survival is often a collective effort. In urban and rural areas alike, individuals find strength in their communities, using shared experiences as a source of motivation to keep pushing forward. This sense of
solidarity not only reinforces hope but also provides a sense of purpose, a reminder that hardship is temporary, and perseverance can yield long-term rewards.
Moreover, faith and spirituality also play a key role in sustaining optimism among Nigerians. Across the country, churches, mosques, and other places of worship are filled with people who hold onto the belief that their circumstances will improve. This spiritual outlook transcends religious lines and serves as a unifying factor, providing individuals with the courage to endure, pray, and believe in eventual change. It is not uncommon to hear the words “It is well” as a form of reassurance, reflecting the deep-seated belief that challenges, no matter how severe, can be overcome.
While government policies and economic reforms seem far away from easing the hardships faced by many, we are at that time when Nigerians must hold on to these qualities and communities to ensure we survive the tide legally and peacefully. The challenges may seem insurmountable at times, but the Nigerian spirit has repeatedly shown that it cannot be broken.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.
Prof. Ofonime Emmanuel Bassey is a Leadership, Conflict, Peace, and Security Management Coach with decades of experience in the practice and promotion of Law Enforcement, Peace, and Security through the Nigeria Police and the United
Nations.
He has served and interacted at the top level management of the Nigeria Police as well as internationally as a United Nation’s Monitor/Mentor in Kosovo, Europe.
Ofonime is a certified United Nation’s Trainer, and currently a Professor of Leadership, Peace, and Conflict Resolution with ICOF University, USA/Zambia and a Professor of Peace Education with Charismatic International University, Cameroon.
With his marks well-established in Peace Leadership both in Nigeria and Africa, he is the President, NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership.
Presently, he is spearheading a campaign tagged “The Next Peace Leaders”, a campaign that is billed to run from 2022-2030 with a target of training 37,000 young peace leaders.
For leadership, conflict, peace and security consultations and trainings, reach him via:
Facebook: Dr. O.E Bassey
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