And 2023 begins today

BY DAYO OLADELE-ILORI

Nigeria has decided and I pray this decision propels our future in the right direction. One of the fact across Africa is the need for a change of guard from old leaders who can be safely classified as over-aged and spent to the hands of younger albeit experienced, patriotic leaders who are willing to take radical steps in instituting progressive change across the continent.

The story of the transformation of Rwanda is enviable and an excellent case study. A change instituted by a determined lot, led by a president who departed from what had become the “Africa norm”, breaking into a change that has left the world in great awe. Good as it may be, are we ready in Nigeria for such sporadic, spontaneous and dramatic change?

The “Not Too Young To Run” bill has made its way, and established the determination of Nigerian to try new breeds of leaders, particularly the unknown and yet-to-be tested – Now that the new age to attain leadership politically has been dropped technically to 30 years, it is an opportunity to see more young leaders come out to contest for the various position. However, what is the mindset of the average Nigerian youth today? Contesting at 30 means gathering the political clout from about age 23. Let’s ask ourselves, where are these age bracket today? What is their mindset?

Nigeria is a complex nation where the facts are often in conflict with the reality. A country where the young desires to run but are kept at home for six-months by ASUU strike. The loss of time to consolidate is huge and more negative than we can quantify. The natural assumption will be that since there are strong cravings for new leaders, the young will be available to contest, vote and support but this is not so. Is it that citizens are deliberately unpatriotic? No! It is a situation of being disenchanted with the system. And as we approach 2023 today, taking the reins to overcome challenges require some internal works

Align, Don’t Compromise

If we must make the voice bigger, louder, impactful and influential, we need the numbers, we need the platform and above all we need the alignment. The current mega parties went through several metamorphoses before the platforms currently ued today were built. If we want a more influential position away from the two elephants, then a third party must be a coalition of all smaller opposition parties and group. Independent candidacy does not seem to cut the deal.

Be Intentional

Successful career politicians are individuals who were deliberate, purposeful and forthright about their intentions to run for a position. It’s either you build your political foundation from home, playing the grassroots politics with tenacity or rely on the building blocks of exisitng politicians sliding in through business ownership, established recommendation or extreme influence on the economy. But by all means chart your course. Don’t wait for a year to election. Ask your self Who knows you? What are you known for? Who do you know? The campaign starts today. Be Intentional!

The Cost of Election Collateral and all

It begins with the purchase of the forms. Nominations forms at 45 million or even 12 million are way too expensive for many to afford. This is already an entry barrier which will open wide, the doors of corruption. One of the ways to surmount this challenge is to devise new and creative fundraising method to support young and upcoming leaders. Leveraging on the social media population and the technology can drive this. Physical alignment with existing kingmakers and strong political influence can never be wished away.

Unemployment and Migration

The mass exodus of young potential voters as well as eligible critical mass who have pre-requisite qualification to contest is also of great concern. Canada is the new hub, and professionals especially in the health sector are leaving in droves to seek better opportunities outside the country. If we do not make Nigeria a promising place for the youths, 2023 will not only elude the “Not Too Young To Run” but may leave a larger gap that may be tougher to close.
Can there truly be a “youthquake” in Nigeria? Are we ready to change the current narratives about Nigeria? It’s time to come together to push the envelope. 2023 begins today!!!

Remember, when you chase the sun, you will catch the clouds, when you long for the moonlight, stories are heralded. Never seek perfection, simply stay genuine.

Oladele-Ilori is a management consultant, trainer/facilitator, an entrepreneur, an author, a wife and mother. She is the HR Advisory at House of Procurement. She is also the convener of WELEAD -www.weleadnetwork.org