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I recently received an invitation to attend a Red Carpet Gala to celebrate Nigeria’s 50th Independence day on October 1st,2010.
I’ve paced back and forth, pondered, scratched and nearly picked all the hairs on my head, trying to sum up at least three good reasons why I should attend this event.
Like any other young Nigerian, it is quite hard for me to turn down a good chance to ‘gbedu’. However, I am noticing it is really hard for me to ignore the complacency of many to the idea of this celebration. What have I even accomplished as a Nigerian to be honored as a guest at an Independence Day Red Carpet Gala amongst my peers? I don’t doubt that there are patriotic Nigerians out there who, in reverence of their beloved country, are coming out in their full fledged ‘stunna’ green and white outfits, popping bottles and toasting to commemorate yet another year of independence as the supposed giant of Africa. But should Nigeria at 50 be a call to celebrate or a call to action?
Personally, I think about it in this manner: If Nigeria was a friend of mine and I was to attend her birthday celebration, what would I say if I was to give a toast in front of a large guest of fellow friends and well-wishers to recognize her to date? How am I supposed to uplift a friend who blatantly looks frail and in need of my help, instead am I to ignore that we are celebrating someone nearing their demise? I can’t really be the only one that has kept her thinking positively and doing all in my might to make her happy, hale and hearty at 50? No way!
Quite frankly, as an honorable friend of Nigeria, I feel hypocritical attending this event. I would rather look progressively and convene at an event that focuses on her revival. I’m truly worried for Nigeria today and her image. As her friend, we are supposed to soar together, she is what I am supposed to represent. She needs my help and support. Upon doing this successfully, Oct 1st 20-some, I’ll strut the red carpet, guilt-free and party to Damascus.
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