A Toast For Nigeria At 64

ISAAC ASABOR*

Ladies and gentlemen, fellow Nigerians, today we gather to raise our glasses in honour of our beloved country, Nigeria, as she celebrates her 64th birthday.

Birthdays are special occasions for reflection and celebration, recognising the journey, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped the celebrant’s life. So it is only fitting that we celebrate Nigeria today, a country rich in diversity, culture, and history, but also one that, like any 64-year-old, has faced ups and downs along the way.

As we toast Nigeria today, we must acknowledge a reality that has come to define our country: “who you know” is often more important than “what you know.” It is a bitter truth that casts a cloud over our progress. Nigeria is a country brimming with brilliant minds, skilled professionals, and hard-working citizens who, despite their abilities, are frequently overlooked in favour of those with the necessary connections. In Nigeria, meritocracy is struggling to find its footing, with mediocrity, connections, and financial clout frequently preceding excellence, competence, and hard work.

Our country’s corridors of power, whether in politics, business, or even daily life, have all too frequently become dominated by a culture that values influence and wealth above all else. In many circles, the question is not “What can you do?” but “Who do you know?” or “How much do you have?” This unfortunate trend has resulted in a society in which those who deserve recognition and success for their talents and contributions are overlooked, while those with deep pockets or the right connections easily rise through the ranks.

Wealth reigns supreme in Nigeria, and we cannot ignore that. Whether you are looking for business opportunities, political appointments, or social advancement, the size of your bank account can often determine your fate. The quality of your ideas or the breadth of your knowledge frequently takes a back seat to financial power. Even more troubling is that the methods used to acquire this wealth are rarely questioned. Despite the presence of institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), an environment of impunity persists. Wealth, regardless of source, frequently shields individuals from scrutiny, and in a country where money talks, the wealthy often speak louder than the meritorious.

This reality has not only stifled many Nigerians’ aspirations but has also allowed corruption to flourish. Financial crimes, both in the public and private sectors, frequently go unchecked, with those responsible maintaining high social and political standing. This culture of valuing wealth over integrity has eroded trust in our systems and institutions, making it difficult for our country to make the progress it so desperately requires.

Despite these challenges, we must celebrate Nigerians’ remarkable resilience. In a country with weak systems to support hard work and merit, many people have adopted a culture of audacity and risk-taking. From entrepreneurs navigating our economy’s unpredictable terrain to political actors operating in an uncertain landscape, Nigerians have demonstrated boldness and a “go for it” attitude that has driven innovation and entrepreneurship. This daring has resulted in remarkable successes, but it also reflects our system’s deep flaws, in which survival frequently necessitates risk-taking rather than the consistent pursuit of excellence.

As we raise our glasses today, let us also consider the need for change. Nigeria, at 64, has demonstrated incredible resilience, but the road ahead will necessitate a shift in how we define and reward success. It is time to put merit at the centre of our efforts. It is time to create a country in which the brightest minds are celebrated and given opportunities, hard work and innovation are rewarded, and the rule of law is applied equally to all, regardless of wealth or connections.

As we toast Nigeria, let us envision a future in which financial crimes are taken seriously, corruption is no longer tolerated, and success is determined not by “who you know,” but by “what you know” and what you have contributed to the development of our great country. The future must belong to those who work hard, make meaningful contributions, and follow the rules, not just those who have the right connections or deep pockets.

So, here’s to Nigeria at 64, a nation with incredible potential, resilient people, and a nation on the verge of greatness. Let us pledge to create a future in which merit triumphs over mediocrity, integrity is valued over influence, and every Nigerian has the opportunity to succeed based on their abilities and efforts.

Here’s to a brighter, more equitable, and prosperous Nigeria. Happy 64th birthday, Nigeria!

Cheers!