As our nation navigates economic and social complexities in these challenging times, stories of selflessness and patriotism shine as beacons of hope. Recently, I encountered a story that left me deeply inspired—a story about a classmate from my university days who exemplifies the essence of true leadership and service to Nigeria.
This individual served the government of Nigeria as a Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Values and Social Justice for six months without accepting any form of compensation or payment. To him, this was not a job but a mission—a contribution to a nation in need. When I reached out to verify the authenticity of this story, he not only confirmed it but also shared a detailed document outlining his experience and vision.
His name is Fela Durotoye, and his story is a powerful reminder that genuine, selfless individuals exist within our government—heroes working tirelessly to make Nigeria better.
Addressing Misconceptions About Governance
In his document, Durotoye highlights a critical point: not all politicians or public servants are corrupt or self-serving. While it is easy to generalize and criticize from afar, there are individuals in both government and private sectors who are making sacrifices, working diligently, and dedicating their lives to ensuring Nigeria’s progress. These unsung heroes are breaking the mold, showing that leadership is about service, not self-interest.
Durotoye’s message calls for more Nigerians with genuine hearts for service to rise and join the effort to rebuild our country. He refers to these selfless individuals as the “Heroes of Our Nation,” those who are committed to using their time, expertise, and resources to create a better Nigeria.
A Vision for National Development
Durotoye outlines an inspiring vision for advancing Nigeria’s development through focused efforts in key areas. Using the six letters of the word “HEROES,” he identifies critical initiatives that must drive our collective actions:
- Hunger, Healthcare, and Human Rights: Addressing hunger, improving healthcare, and ensuring human rights for all.
- Education and Employment: Enhancing education quality, creating jobs, and fostering entertainment industries to inspire creativity and innovation.
- Roads, Rehabilitation, and Religious Tolerance: Constructing and repairing infrastructure while promoting religious harmony and tolerance.
- Orientation and Orphanages: Instilling new values and focusing on vulnerable persons, including orphans, widows, the elderly, and internally displaced persons.
- Energy and Environment: Achieving energy sufficiency, ensuring electricity for all, and fostering a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
- Safety, Shelter, and Social Justice: Strengthening security, providing shelter, promoting service excellence, advancing sports development, and enforcing social justice.
These areas align closely with the Great Nigerian Assembly’s (GNA) mission, whose 16 professional groups are dedicated to creating innovative solutions for Nigeria’s challenges. Together, such efforts aim to transform Nigeria into a nation governed by equity, meritocracy, and opportunity for all.
A Call to Action
To Fela Durotoye and others like him across Nigeria and the world, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. You are a Great Nigerian, a mentor to thousands, and a builder of hope. Your story inspires our youth and reminds us all of the potential we hold to effect positive change. To everyone working silently to make Nigeria great—whether in public office or private enterprise—we see you, we celebrate you, and your reward is certain. Your light shines brightly, bringing hope to the people and inspiring generations.
To those in leadership who have chosen a different path—those who misuse their positions to loot public resources—I urge you to reflect and change. Wealth cannot buy peace of mind, and no amount of stolen riches can protect you from the judgment of conscience or the Almighty. You cannot drive two cars at once, sleep in two rooms simultaneously, or fly in two jets at the same time. At the end of the day, we all face the same six feet.
What legacy will you leave behind? If others are stealing, do not join them in destroying our nation; they will face the consequences. If you have the opportunity to lead, be a Great Nigerian—someone who contributes to rebuilding and healing the wounds of generations.
The Heroes We Need
Nigeria is at a critical juncture in its history. For our nation to thrive, heroes must rise—selfless individuals willing to serve with integrity, sacrifice, and purpose. Together, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to prosper, where our shared values unite us, and where future generations will look back with pride on the legacy we leave.
Let us all, in whatever capacity we can, commit to being the change Nigeria needs.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
GN Kayode Elusoji – Executive Director GNA
