Waving The Flag

We all know that freedom is not free. It took years of efforts, non-violence and other movement by our national freedom fighters to attain freedom and it is observed with great enthusiasm every October 1 all over the country.
56 years on, Nigeria has been through her ups and downs. As we would say, we are not yet where we are supposed to be but we are relentless, and we are still forging ahead. Though the recent events in the country have deepened the state of tension nationwide.
Patriotism these days is like a general celebration, we hear about the meaning of patriotism on Democracy Day, Workers’ Day and Independence Day but many of us never sit down to reflect on what it truly means and what is in it for Nigeria.
Walk down the streets of Lagos and you will be amazed at what people understand as being patriotic but they don’t practice what they know. Those nationalists who truly fought for our independence and gave us a reason to enjoy freedom will be shocked to see our ways if they could see us now.
Since the return to democracy on May 29, 1999, Nigerians in near unanimity have been “feeling” patriotic. For most, that sadly suffices to make one a solid patriot. But if I’m right, it’s time for Nigerians to ask the right questions, make the right move, debate wisely about the state of Nigeria and how to move the country forward.
Patriotism is not simply showing up to vote. You need to know a lot more about what motivates a voter before you judge his patriotism. He might be casting a ballot because he just wants something at someone else’s expense. Probably, he doesn’t care where the politician he’s hiring gets it from.
Waving the flag can be an outward sign of patriotism, but let’s not cheapen the term by ever suggesting that it’s anything more than a sign.
We can call Independence Day whatever we want, but it’s the bedrock on which this nation was founded and from which we stray at our peril. It’s what defines us as a nation. It makes life worth living, which means it’s worth fighting and dying for.
As we reflect today, let us take a cue from other nations of the world and contribute our own little quota to the growth of our nation. We all have a role to play, and together, we can make a positive change in our nation.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!