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From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
Philanthropist and founder of Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Mr Tony Elumelu has declared that transforming the country is a journey that demands our collective dedication and unity across political, ethnic and religious affiliations.
Elemelu who noted that nation building is a call to arms and a necessity, lamented over what he described as unnecessary divisions in the country and squandering of our heritage.
In his keynote address at the 63rd annual conference of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), the business guru solicited the cooperation of all Nigerians of all professions to work towards a better and great country.
“Transforming Nigeria is a journey that demands our collective dedication, building across political affiliations, ethnic differences, and socioeconomic differences. United, whatever our backgrounds, geographies, religions, experiences, by a single desire – to ensure that our country experiences a true renaissance.
“Our country has experienced division – unnecessary division and the squandering of heritage, said nation building at its core, is the intricate process of forging a cohesive, harmonious, and united society, out of diverse individuals, culture, and ideologies.
“It is the art of constructing a shared identity, purpose, and vision that transcends all individual interests.”
While calling on Nigerians to join hands in the task of building a great nation, the philanthropist said ‘Transforming Nigeria is a journey that demands our collective dedication, building across political affiliations, ethnic differences, and socioeconomic differences, as it is not the responsibility of our government alone.
It was his submissions that great nations start with great people and not just great leaders.
“Our private sector, our philanthropies, our civil society, all citizens must be brought together and be empowered – as real, valued and executing partners for this national renewal, this nation building,” Elumelu stated.
“It behoves us all to collaborate in unity to reset Nigeria. So, what does this mean? For me this is nothing less than a fundamental renewal of the social and economic infrastructure of Nigeria.
‘The contract between a nation and its people. Nation building is not a quick fix, it entails sacrifices. We cannot keep doing the same things and expect different outcomes.
“Let us lead our nation building, by laying those important foundations for our nation – let us renew our infrastructure. When I talk of infrastructure, I do not mean just roads or rail, bridges, or ports, I mean the following:
“Investment in our youth – we need to renew our commitment to our youth, provide them with the means to succeed in Nigeria – not beyond Nigeria. This means not just investment in our education system, but in our entrepreneurial culture.
“Nigeria is a nation of entrepreneurs -you know me as an investor and champion of entrepreneurs – I know the social and economic returns entrepreneurship creates.
“Let us create a joined-up government task force to champion at the highest level, our young and our entrepreneurs.”
