Stepping Towards a Healthier Tomorrow: The Waka Revolution

By Ifeoma Ikem

The sun rose over the bustling streets of Lagos, casting a warm glow over the sea of walkers gathered at the Catholic Church on Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase I. The air was alive with the sound of chatter and the rustling of feet as participants prepared to embark on a 9.4km journey of wellness.

It was the last Saturday in the month of March.

At the forefront of this movement was Lorenz Mba, founder of the Waka Community International Foundation, who stood tall, his eyes shining with passion. “Today has finally come. Let’s waka not just for ourselves, but for our loved ones, our communities, and our nation,” he declared, his voice ringing out across the crowd. Apparently, the road walk was also a tribute to the late Dr Adetokunbo Alakija – a staunch advocate of health and wellness. Dr Alakija was a pioneer member of Waka and Managing Director of Q-Life Family Clinic.

The walk, hosted by Waka in collaboration with Q-Life Family Clinic and Health Emergency Initiative, traversed Lekki and Ikoyi axis of the state.

As the walkers set off, the city came alive with the sound of footsteps, a symphony of movement that echoed through the streets. The Waka Revolution had begun, a movement that sought to transform the lives of Nigerians, one step at a time.

Pascal Achunine, Medical Director of HEI, walked alongside the crowd, his heart swelling with pride. “Dr. Alakija, the man we honour today, was a champion of healthy living,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “His legacy lives on through this walk, and we’re committed to carrying the torch forward.”

Dr. Olayinka Olowolu, Medical Director of Q-Life, nodded in agreement. “Dr. Alakija was a true visionary, who understood the importance of preventive healthcare. We’re proud to continue his work, inspiring Nigerians to take control of their health.”

As the walkers made their way through the city, they were joined by others, each with their own story, their own struggles, and their own triumphs. Together, they formed a tapestry of resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to persevere.

Amidst this crowd were numerous youth who leapt, jumped, dancing even to the popular tunes belted out by the DeeJay in the leading vehicle, as they took copious pictures of their journey. Many elderly people in their ’60s and ’70s, in determination not to be left behind, forged ahead with unflinching, but set faces.

The Waka Revolution was more than just a walk; it was a movement, a call to action, a reminder that the power to create change lies within each of us. With over 55,000 members in 47 countries joining the locals in solidarity walk, the Waka Foundation led the charge towards a healthier, happier tomorrow.

As the walkers reached the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated, they knew that they had taken the first step towards a brighter future. And as they looked up at the sky, they knew that Dr. Alakija was smiling down on them, proud of the legacy he had inspired, and the revolution that would continue to transform lives, one step at a time.

The Waka Revolution was not just about walking; it was about creating a culture of wellness, a culture that encouraged individuals to take control of their health. With the Waka International App, which rewards users for walking, the movement was making it easier for people to make healthy choices.

As the dust settled on the 9.4km walk, one thing was clear: the Waka Revolution was here to stay. With its message of hope, resilience, and determination, it was inspiring a nation to take control of its health, one step at a time.

Addressing National Failures and Seeking Collective Solutions

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

Introduction

Nigeria, a nation rich in diversity and potential, continues to grapple with deep-seated challenges that threaten the well-being of its citizens. Across different regions, people are suffering due to insecurity, economic instability, and poor governance. The North faces a dire situation, with lives being lost at an alarming rate. The South is not spared, as banditry and other forms of violence claim innocent lives. These issues are not regional but national in nature, stemming from the failure of leadership across the board. As a people, we must recognize our common plight and work together to forge solutions rather than engage in blame games.

The Reality of Leadership Failures

The Nigerian political class, entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding lives and improving livelihoods, has consistently failed. Insecurity remains rampant, with banditry, insurgency, and communal clashes taking lives daily. Economic policies continue to widen the gap between the rich and the poor, making survival more difficult for the average Nigerian. Corruption, lack of accountability, and poor governance have deepened the crisis, leaving citizens to fend for themselves in an increasingly harsh environment. This is not just a northern or southern problem—it is a Nigerian problem.

The Common Enemy: Political Elites

One of the major reasons for the persistent suffering of Nigerians is the self-serving nature of the political elite. They prioritize personal enrichment over national progress, often using divisive tactics to prevent unity among the people. By keeping Nigerians distracted with ethnic and religious differences, they evade responsibility for their mismanagement. The failure to provide security, basic amenities, and opportunities for economic advancement demonstrates their collective neglect of the people’s welfare.

The Need for Unity

For too long, Nigerians have been divided along ethnic, religious, and regional lines. These divisions have hindered progress, making it easy for corrupt leaders to maintain control. However, the challenges we face are the same regardless of region. Whether it is the violence in the North, kidnappings in the South, or economic hardships nationwide, the root causes are the same—bad leadership and poor governance. Unity among Nigerians is essential in pushing for meaningful change.

Proposing Solutions

Rather than merely lamenting our problems, we must take proactive steps to develop and implement solutions. Below are some strategies to address our national crises:

1. Demand for Accountable Leadership

Citizens must hold leaders accountable through active civic engagement. This includes monitoring government policies, participating in elections, and insisting on transparency. The era of electing leaders based on tribal or religious affiliations must end. Competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service should be the criteria for leadership.

2. Strengthening Local Governance

A decentralized governance system can enhance development at the grassroots level. Local leaders, closer to the people, should be empowered to address community-specific challenges. Improved local governance can bridge gaps where national leadership has failed.

3. Security Reform and Community Involvement

The government must overhaul the security sector, ensuring better training, funding, and motivation for security personnel. Additionally, local communities should be actively involved in intelligence gathering and security efforts. Strengthening neighborhood watch groups and utilizing technology for security monitoring can improve safety.

4. Economic Empowerment Programs

Unemployment and poverty contribute significantly to crime and insecurity. The government should implement policies that encourage entrepreneurship, skill acquisition, and job creation. Empowering small businesses through access to credit and resources can reduce economic hardships.

5. Educational Reform and Youth Engagement

Education plays a critical role in national development. Investing in quality education and skill development programs can prepare young Nigerians for a competitive job market. Additionally, youth engagement in governance and policymaking should be encouraged, as they hold the key to the nation’s future.

6. Citizens’ Legislative Advocacy

Nigerians must engage with legislative processes by pushing for laws that prioritize their welfare. Active participation in public hearings, petitions, and town hall meetings can ensure that policies reflect the people’s interests rather than elite preferences.

7. Leveraging Technology and Media for Awareness

The media and technology can be powerful tools for change. Social media campaigns, independent investigative journalism, and digital activism can expose corruption, mobilize citizens, and create pressure for government accountability.

Presenting Solutions to Implementers

It is not enough to discuss solutions; they must be brought to the attention of those who can implement them. Civil society organizations, pressure groups, and advocacy networks should present well-researched policy recommendations to government bodies. Engaging with lawmakers, governors, and stakeholders in structured dialogues can facilitate action. Furthermore, the private sector and international organizations can be partners in implementing community development initiatives.

The Role of Nigerians in Change

While the government bears a significant responsibility, citizens must also contribute to national progress. Law-abiding behavior, ethical business practices, and community-driven initiatives can collectively improve society. Voter education and active participation in governance ensure that only capable leaders emerge.

In Conclusion;

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where the choices we make will determine our future. Blaming each other for our collective suffering only serves to distract us from the real issues. The failures of leadership have affected every region, making it imperative for Nigerians to unite and demand better governance. Solutions exist, but they require collective effort, persistence, and engagement with those in power. If we do not act, we remain victims of a system that thrives on division and negligence. It is time for every Nigerian to contribute to the country’s recovery and ensure a better future for generations to come.

Unity in Diversity: The Path to Nigeria’s Prosperity

By George O Sylvester

Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is a nation rich in cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity. With over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages spoken, the country’s multifaceted identity is both a source of strength and a challenge. Embracing this diversity and fostering unity is crucial for Nigeria’s progress and development.

Historical Precedents of Unity

History offers numerous examples of nations that have harnessed their diverse components to build formidable entities. The United States began as thirteen independent colonies that united to form a single nation, subsequently expanding through the inclusion of other territories. China, with a population comparable to that of the entire African continent, has maintained cohesion despite vast cultural and regional differences. India, a country marked by its myriad languages, religions, and cultures, has emerged as a global power by integrating its diverse groups. Conversely, Pakistan, which separated from India primarily due to religious differences, continues to grapple with developmental challenges. These examples underscore the potential of unity in fostering national strength and progress.

The Nigerian Context

Nigeria’s diversity is unparalleled, encompassing various ethnicities such as the Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and numerous others. This pluralism should be a wellspring of strength, yet the nation has faced persistent challenges rooted in ethnic and regional divisions. Mismanagement of resources and leadership failures have often been attributed to specific groups, leading to a fragmented national consciousness. However, it is imperative to recognize that every region is governed by its own people, and the trajectory of progress or regression largely depends on the quality of leadership within these regions.

Chinua Achebe, one of Nigeria’s literary giants, aptly noted, “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.” This observation underscores the notion that the nation’s challenges are not inherently tied to its diverse makeup but rather to the caliber of its leaders across all regions.

The Power of Unity

Unity does not imply uniformity; rather, it signifies the harmonious coexistence of diverse elements working towards a common goal. Ifeanyi Enoch Onuoha encapsulates this sentiment: “For us to progress, we must be a community in liberty, equality, and fraternity.” By embracing our differences and leveraging them as assets, Nigeria can forge a path toward collective progress.

Addressing Leadership and Resource Management

The mismanagement of resources has been a significant impediment to Nigeria’s development. This issue transcends ethnic and regional boundaries, pointing to a systemic problem in governance. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first President, emphasized the essence of true leadership: “A true leader is one who serves the people, not one who seeks power for personal gain.” It is incumbent upon leaders at all levels to prioritize the welfare of their constituents over personal ambitions.

The Role of the Citizenry

While leadership plays a pivotal role, the onus of fostering unity and progress also lies with the citizenry. Engaging in constructive dialogue, promoting mutual respect, and actively participating in the democratic process are essential steps toward nation-building. As Chinua Achebe observed, “Nigeria is what it is because its leaders are not what they should be.” This statement serves as a call to action for citizens to demand accountability and integrity from their leaders.

Practical Steps Toward Unity and Progress

Promoting Inclusive Governance: Ensuring that all ethnic and regional groups are adequately represented in government institutions can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of marginalization.

Investing in Education: Education serves as a unifying force, promoting understanding and tolerance among diverse groups. A curriculum that highlights the nation’s rich cultural heritage can instill pride and unity among citizens.

Encouraging Inter-ethnic Collaboration: Initiatives that promote collaboration across ethnic lines, such as inter-community projects and cultural exchanges, can strengthen national cohesion.

Ensuring Equitable Resource Distribution: Transparent and fair allocation of resources can mitigate feelings of disenfranchisement and promote national solidarity.

Strengthening Institutions: Building robust institutions that uphold the rule of law and ensure justice can engender trust and unity among the populace.

Furthermore

Nigeria stands at a crossroads where the choices made today will shape its future trajectory. Embracing unity in diversity is not merely an idealistic notion but a pragmatic approach to nation-building. By drawing lessons from history, addressing leadership challenges, and actively engaging the citizenry, Nigeria can harness its rich diversity as a formidable asset. As we move forward, let us remember that our collective strength lies not in our similarities but in our ability to unite despite our differences.