The world today faces unprecedented challenges. Nations are turning inward, safeguarding their borders, and prioritizing their economic and political interests. These shifts have created mounting pressures on immigrants and underscored the urgent need for every nation to give its citizens a sense of belonging, Nigeria included.
With this reality in mind, I write to you with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering hope for a brighter future. It is time for us, as Nigerians, to unite in purpose, collaborate, and redefine our beloved nation. We stand at a critical juncture in our history—a moment that demands decisive action and an unshakable belief in our ability to transform Nigeria into the country of our dreams.
The Power of Collaboration
Our nation is blessed with extraordinary talent, both at home and abroad. Across the globe, Nigerians in the diaspora are making remarkable contributions in fields such as medicine, technology, business, education, and the arts.
The Great Nigerian Assembly (GNA), a non-political, non-governmental, non-religious, and not-for-profit global coalition of professional Nigerians, embodies the transformative power of collaboration. Together, we leverage our skills, knowledge, and resources to uplift one another and work towards a Nigeria that thrives economically, socially, and politically—a nation free from religious, ethnic, and tribal barriers.
Building a great nation cannot rest on the shoulders of a few. It requires the active participation of every Nigerian. We must rise above personal interests, embrace our diversity, and focus on the greater good.
A Call to Action for the Diaspora
To our brothers and sisters in the diaspora, I urge you to maintain and strengthen your ties with home. Seek out investment opportunities that spur economic growth and create jobs for our people. Share your expertise, engage with communities, and lend your voice to national development discussions.
We acknowledge the challenges faced by many in the diaspora—burnt hands from failed investments, broken trust, and even tragic losses. These painful experiences should not deter us from helping to rebuild our nation. Instead, let them teach us to be more vigilant, conduct due diligence, and carefully evaluate those we entrust with our resources.
In whatever capacity you can, continue rendering assistance to those in need. Your contributions, no matter how small, ripple through generations. Let us remain steadfast in our hope and commitment because, despite its flaws, there is no place like home.
Those facing immigration challenges should remain hopeful and focused. Do not forsake your township or community gatherings—they provide support and encouragement. To those engaging in criminal activities and tarnishing our nation’s image, stop now and become good citizens. The arm of the law will eventually catch up with wrongdoing.
A Call to Responsibility for Those at Home
To our compatriots at home, honesty and integrity must guide your actions. Many Nigerians in the diaspora make significant sacrifices to invest in their homeland. Do not betray their trust. Your dependability, accountability, and commitment to excellence will inspire confidence and foster meaningful collaboration. Let us prove that we are a people of honor, capable of building a legacy of trust and progress.
A Call for Responsive Governance
While acknowledging the efforts of the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is implementing new and transformative policies, we must remain mindful of their impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Prudence in spending is not merely a fiscal responsibility—it is a moral obligation.
Corruption, a long-standing blight on our nation, must be eradicated. Leaders who betray public trust must face justice for accountability and as a deterrent to others. Let those in governance remember that their time in power is fleeting, and the true measure of their legacy will be the positive impact they leave behind.
We must also prioritize agriculture from the grassroots to the federal level. A reliable power supply is critical for reviving industries, creating jobs, and supporting our youth. Transparency across all sectors is essential for sustainable development. The GNA is positioned to collaborate, offer suggestions, and work jointly with local, state, and federal agencies as well as private establishments, for a better Nigeria.
A Reflection on Mortality and Legacy
Life is fleeting, and death is inevitable. When our time comes, the works of our hands will speak for us. What legacy will we leave behind? One of unity, progress, and hope—or one of division, greed, and missed opportunities? Let us reflect deeply on this.
A Vision for the Future
Only great Nigerians can build a great Nigeria. The responsibility for our nation’s progress rests in our hands. Together, we can create a country that future generations will be proud to call home—a nation that embodies resilience, ingenuity, and greatness.
A Call to the Youth
To the youth of Nigeria, you are the future—the leaders of tomorrow and the hope of our nation. Focus on building yourselves academically and professionally. Collaborate on innovative ideas and embrace transformative technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence, which is reshaping the world.
Avoid distractions and harmful activities that jeopardize your future. Acquire new knowledge and skills, and position yourselves as global trailblazers, placing Nigeria firmly on the map of global success. You have what it takes—start now!
A Collective Responsibility
We are the architects of our present-day Nigeria. Judges, lecturers, students, parents, religious leaders, government officials, politicians, private sector leaders, and market women—all of us have a role to play. Let us act with urgency. The time is now. Let us unite in purpose, for our strength lies in our diversity.
A New Nigeria Will Emerge
May history remember us as the generation that stood together, worked together, and built together—a Nigeria that fulfilled its immense potential and truly belonged to us all. A new Nigeria will emerge—a Nigeria of our dreams will come alive.
Together, we shall rise. Together, we shall succeed.
Thank you, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
With hope and determination,
GN. Kayode Elusoji
Executive Director, Great Nigerian Assembly (GNA)
