Hello, my dear friend! I am Dr. Charles Apoki, and today I have something heavy on my mind. I’ve been struggling to understand the state of political leadership in Africa, especially in our beloved Nigeria. The way things are going, it’s as if Nigeria is not meant to be a home for its own people, let alone its leaders.
Recently, I saw General Yakubu Gowon, a former Nigerian head of state, going around the country organizing prayer programs for Nigeria. He was in governance at a very young age, got married while in office, and was later overthrown. Just the other day, President Muhammadu Buhari went to visit him in the UK. These men Gowon and Buhari have a combined 30 years of ruling this country in various capacities. Yet, why are they living abroad now?
I ask myself, if they couldn’t build Nigeria into a country where they could comfortably retire, then what did they really achieve during their time in power? Is Nigeria a cemetery? Do our leaders just take what they can from here and then run abroad when they need comfort, peace, or healthcare?
After the Independence Day celebrations, President Bola Tinubu jetted off to the UK for a holiday. So, is Nigeria so bad that even our current leaders can’t enjoy a holiday here? In America, when the president needs a break, they go to Camp David, not some foreign country. Why didn’t our president go to Yankari Game Reserve or Obudu Cattle Ranch? We have beautiful locations here in Nigeria, but our leaders would rather spend time and money abroad.
What is even more alarming is the health situation. When they fall sick, they go overseas for treatment. This means they forgot to build functional hospitals here in Nigeria for the rest of us. Not only that, many of them have relocated their children abroad, away from the poor infrastructure and lack of basic amenities they left behind for the people. Some of our religious leaders who tell us to keep praying for Nigeria are doing the same, relocating their families while holding onto control of wealth and influence in the country.
My Nigerian brothers and sisters, what advice can I even give you? We have done too much, endured too much. I don’t know if there’s any hope left for this country. My brain is stressed. Is there any hope for this country? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below. I want to hear what you think.
Before I go, let me remind you about my upcoming seminar on November 8th and 9th, titled “Becoming a Person of Influence.” It promises to be insightful and impactful. To register, send a message to the number provided.
God bless you,
I remain your friend,
Dr. Charles Apoki
