Afolabi Yusuf Olawale.
As a Yoruba local boy who chose to study in Igbo land, I speak to you today as a living testament to the power of unity and the futility of religious and ethnic divisions. In the tapestry of Nigeria's diverse cultures, the Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa stand as vibrant threads, each contributing to the richness and beauty of our nation.
Yet, for too long, the poison of division has threatened to tear us apart. The elderly, who should be the custodians of wisdom and unity, have instead become purveyors of hate, instilling in the minds of the young the false notion that our differences are insurmountable. They perpetuate stereotypes and prejudices, creating a fertile ground for mistrust and conflict. But I refuse to be a prisoner of their divisive rhetoric.
My experiences in Igbo land have shown me firsthand the fallacy of their claims. I have met beautiful souls, kind hearts, and brilliant minds who have welcomed me with open arms. They have taught me the true meaning of hospitality, friendship, and brotherhood. The good and bad people exist in every corner of our nation, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
To label an entire group based on the actions of a few is not only unfair but also perpetuates the very divisions we seek to overcome. It is time for us to break the chains of hatred and embrace the power of unity. Let us celebrate our differences while recognizing that we are all Nigerians, bound together by a shared destiny.
Let us invest in education, not only to equip our young people with knowledge and skills but also to foster critical thinking and empathy. Let us promote dialogue and understanding, creating spaces where people of different backgrounds can come together and learn from one another. Let us follow the example of those beautiful souls who have opened their hearts and minds to people from other cultures.
Let us build bridges of friendship and cooperation, proving that unity is not a mere ideal but a reality we can achieve together. The future of Nigeria depends on our ability to overcome the divisions of the past and move forward with collective resolve to build to a great nation.
Let us choose unity over hatred, understanding over prejudice, and love over fear. Together, we can create a nation where every Nigerian feels valued, respected, and at home, regardless of their religion or ethnicity.