Nigeria Is Sinking—Or Has Already Sank—Because It Has Never Had a True Natural Activist as President

*By George Omagbemi Sylvester*

Since independence (1960) till date, Nigeria has been governed by a long list of military rulers turned democrats, political opportunists, and power brokers driven more by ambition than by activism. The country is not just sinking; many would argue it has already sank. A nation so richly blessed with human and natural resources, yet so tragically mismanaged, has one fundamental and recurring flaw: Nigeria has never been led by a true, passionate, people-driven, natural activist as President. Not once. And this absence of authentic patriotic activism at the helm of affairs is the root cause of Nigeria’s perpetual regression.

Who is a Natural Activist?
A natural activist is not a professional politician who discovered “the people” after tasting the perks of power.
A natural activist is someone whose life is built around advocacy for justice, equity, development, and the empowerment of the masses. It’s someone who has consistently sacrificed personal comfort for the good of the collective, even before entering political office.
Let us think of the likes of Thomas Sankara of Burkina Faso, Patrice Lumumba of Congo, or Nelson Mandela of South Africa—leaders who governed with the people in mind because their lives had already been a protest against injustice.

Nigeria’s Political Landscape: Bereft of Natural Activists From the first republic to the current dispensation, Nigeria has recycled a class of rulers disconnected from the pulse of the people.

While the names may change—Obasanjo, Buhari, Jonathan, Yar’Adua, Tinubu—the blueprint remains the same: politicking for personal gain, ethnic consolidation of power, and absolute disregard for the poor. Let us break it down.

– **Obasanjo (1976–79, 1999–2007)**: A former military general who returned as a “democrat,” Obasanjo’s second coming was marred by privatization scandals, excessive debt accumulation, and the infamous third-term agenda. Though praised for some macroeconomic stability, his administration hardly addressed the root causes of poverty and corruption. He was more of a power tactician than a people’s advocate.

– **Yar’Adua (2007–2010)**: A gentleman by all standards, yet not a natural activist. His brief tenure showed flashes of reform, but his political ascendancy was rooted in elite arrangements, not mass movement or public-driven ideals.

– **Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015)**: A man who rose from a humble background, yes—but not an activist. His failure to confront corruption, his helplessness during the Boko Haram insurgency, and his excessive tolerance of inefficiency revealed a man unprepared to challenge the rot of the system he inherited.

– **Muhammadu Buhari (1983–1985, 2015–2023)**: Widely promoted as a man of integrity, Buhari’s civilian tenure will go down as one of the most economically devastating and socially polarizing in Nigerian history. Inflation soared, naira collapsed, insecurity worsened, and public institutions eroded under his watch. Activism was never his nature—discipline perhaps, but not a people-centered agenda.

– **Bola Ahmed Tinubu (2023–present)**: A political godfather and master strategist, Tinubu’s presidency has been about consolidation of political debts and patronage, not grassroots reform. Nigerians continue to suffer under the yoke of fuel subsidy removal without palliative alternatives, with worsening inflation, rising unemployment, and a sense of national directionlessness.

Why Activism Matters in Leadership Activism births empathy.
A true activist understands the hunger of the market woman, the hopelessness of the unemployed graduate, and the despair of the displaced family in the northeast. Activists don’t need a think tank to tell them what Nigerians need—they have lived it, fought for it, and been jailed for it. That moral conviction is missing in Nigeria’s leadership class. Instead, what we have are career politicians, most of whom see the state as a cash cow.

PDP: The Best Democratic Structure Nigeria Has Ever Had Despite its flaws and internal contradictions, the **People’s Democratic Party (PDP)** remains the best political structure Nigeria has ever produced in the democratic era. Its national outlook, internal zoning principles, commitment to electoral processes (especially under INEC leadership like Prof. Attahiru Jega’s during Jonathan’s era), and relatively peaceful transfers of power demonstrate a level of maturity the APC has never possessed. PDP is not perfect. It has harbored corrupt elements and mismanaged certain opportunities. But it has shown more commitment to democratic ideals than the APC, which has demonstrated autocratic tendencies, media repression, and election manipulation. Under PDP, Nigeria experienced her longest stretch of uninterrupted democracy (1999–2015), enjoyed debt relief, and implemented vital reforms in telecommunications, banking, and agriculture. Even under Goodluck Jonathan—often criticized for his slow pace—the country experienced freedom of speech, judicial independence, and a peaceful concession of defeat in the 2015 election. This singular act elevated Nigeria’s democratic image worldwide.

The Cost of Not Having an Activist-President

Here’s what Nigeria has suffered by not having a natural activist in Aso Rock:
1. **Corruption as Culture**: With no president ready to risk popularity for reform, corruption has become institutionalized. From inflated contracts to oil theft, leaders often turn a blind eye.
2. **Insecurity**: A true activist understands that every Nigerian life matters—Christian or Muslim, Hausa or Igbo, rich or poor. Instead, our leaders respond to crises with committees and condolence tweets.
3. **Brain Drain**: The mass emigration of young Nigerians (“Japa”) is a direct consequence of failed leadership. Youths no longer see a future in a country where hard work is not rewarded and where dreams are constantly suffocated.
4. **Economic Collapse**: With inflation at record highs, unemployment skyrocketing, and the naira in freefall, one wonders how long Nigeria can survive. An activist-president would prioritize local industry, cut government waste, and protect the poor—not travel the world seeking loans while public universities are closed for months.
5. **Loss of National Identity**: Tribalism, religious bigotry, and ethnic chauvinism have replaced national unity. A true activist leader would rise above ethnic sentiments and unite the nation with a common purpose.

What Nigeria Needs Nigeria doesn’t need another politician in agbada with empty campaign slogans. It needs a leader who feels the pain of the people—deeply and personally. Someone who has *fought* for the people, not just *spoken* to them. We need an activist-president who is not afraid to call out the elite, challenge the status quo, and lead reforms that may upset the powerful but uplift the powerless. Until then, Nigeria will continue to oscillate between failure and disaster. We need a president who sees Aso Rock not as a throne of privilege but a platform for purposeful struggle

Nigeria is where it is today—sinking, or perhaps already submerged—because its leaders have lacked the authenticity, empathy, and passion that only natural activists possess.

No nation can rise above the quality of its leadership. We’ve had generals, technocrats, politicians, and businessmen. What we haven’t had is an activist—someone who fights for the people before, during, and after power.

It is time for Nigerians to rethink leadership.
We must demand more than polished grammar and political propaganda.
We must demand passion, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Only then can we begin to pull this nation from the depths of despair.

Until such a leader emerges, we may continue to shout “Up NEPA” as if it’s a privilege to have light in 2025. And that, fellow Nigerians, is the greatest embarrassment of all. —

Accelerating Tourism in Lagos: Cash Onadele’s The Noble Warrior as A Catalyst

By Bolaji Israel

In January, the Lagos State Government revealed that it generated over $71.6 million in revenue from tourism, hospitality, and entertainment sectors during the 2024 yuletide season.

The milestone reinforces Lagos’s status as the tourism and entertainment capital of Africa, underlining the crucial role that tourism plays in driving economic growth and preserving cultural heritage in the aquatic-rich state.

The end of the year season has evolved into a robust platform for showcasing Nigerian arts, culture, and music on a global stage. It nurtures community spirit, strengthens ties with the diaspora, and solidifies Lagos as a premier destination for cultural tourism.

Indeed, Lagos is firmly establishing itself as a hub for tourism in Africa, a trend significantly bolstered by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

However, there is a need for more. Governor Sanwo-Olu must sustain the current momentum by further harnessing various areas of tourism through strategic initiatives that can significantly enhance the state’s appeal to both local and international visitors.

One area to explore more deeply is cultural history, which resonates with identity, values and reorientation, as music, fashion, food and entertainment have received robust attention. A great starting point is a more deliberate and strategic canonisation and projection – beyond mere celebration – of our exemplary cultural and social crusaders such as Ogedengbe Agbogungboro, Wole Soyinka, Funmilayo Kuti, Obafemi Awolowo and others whose lives exemplify values such as selflessness, social equity, justice, fairness and incorruptibility, which are currently in short supply in the nation. Leveraging these icons to engage local and relevant diaspora community helps to rewrite erroneous histories, reorient delinquent youths and affirm our truly positive African identity and character in a manner that offers economic benefits.

A Nigerian-American prolific playwright, Cash Onadele, also known by his pseudonym Aiye-ko-Ooto’, wrote The Noble Warrior (Eni Ogun), as a tribute to the world-acclaimed Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, in 2024. The play presents a golden opportunity for Lagos to reinforce its tourism potential, particularly among the diaspora. I am unaware of any comparable literary endeavour like the 239-page play that so splendidly encapsulates and projects Kongi in his true elements as a bastion of African identity.

The performance of the play in Abeokuta and MUSON centre, Lagos, was so gripping and profound yet entertaining, featuring ample music and dance, as well as a sufficient infusion of the Yoruba language into the production. It was directed by the cerebral Segun Adefila who once again demonstrated his exceptional talent, and produced by Aiye-ko-Ooto himself. The production was such a vivid spectacle to behold laced with a fine dosage of all elements needed for an enjoyable yet instructive theatre moment. It was a delightful show to behold!

One of Nigeria’s most revered thespians, Pa Tunde Kelani, who witnessed the production captured it succinctly: “The play is dense and layered; a courageous blend of sheer theatre, dance and music with a life band music playing alongside which I found very interesting and courageous because it blended so well. The quality and technical is top-notch with no distraction. I congratulate the writer, director and the team for their courage in putting together such a complex play – long and running smoothly to the audience delight. I doff my hat.”

Aisha Adamu Augie, Director General, Centre For Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), a frontline agency that promotes, projects and preserves Nigeria’s cultural heritage also congratulated the producers and Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange as they celebrate Nigeria’s Global Literary Giant with the stage production of The Noble Warrior.

Packed with intrigues, hatred, humour, love, forgiveness, social struggle, and emancipation, The Noble Warrior is not merely a celebration of Soyinka’s legacy; it serves as a pivotal vehicle for promoting Yoruba culture, history and heritage. The play’s narrative revolves around Prince Oluwole, a character inspired by Soyinka, who embodies the values of leadership, bravery, justice and cultural pride as he leads his pre-colonial ijebu-Igbo community against European incursion. Although it is not a factual account of Soyinka’s life, the play creatively mirrors his persona and the ideals he represents, making it a compelling representation of Yoruba history and culture.

With the profundity, aesthetics and volume of literary corpus that Nigeria has been producing including plays, one wonders what is delaying a long overdue review of our curriculum for the crop of new vibrant writers to come in while we do away with the good old Shakespeare that has held sway for far too long!

It’s not every generation that a nation or community is blessed with the enduring presence of such a colossus like Soyinka after nine fascinating decades. As such, the brilliant minds driving the tourism train in Lagos State under the leadership of the Governor, Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson Awoyinfa, and other officials like Mr Olatunde Lawal, Director of Tourism Promotion, must seize the moment to leverage the play as a launchpad for enhancing Lagos’s rising tourism profile.

For instance, by sponsoring command performances for diplomats and international communities in Lagos, the government can promote the rich cultural tapestry of the Yoruba people, creating a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. It can also act as a catalyst for cultural reawakening, generating revenue and creating employment opportunities. By engaging local talent – from actors to stagehands – the production contributes to the creative economy, bolstering youth involvement.

Additionally, the government could extend its support by sponsoring performances across Nigeria and in countries with significant Yoruba-speaking populations, such as Benin and Togo. Furthermore, international tours to places like Brazil and Cuba, where historical ties to Yoruba culture exist, could enhance Lagos’s standing as a cultural hub. Such initiatives would not only showcase the play but also draw attention to the broader cultural heritage of Nigeria, enticing tourists from around the globe.

Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated considerable support for the arts and culture in Lagos, but there remains an urgent need to communicate the value of Yoruba culture to the international community. The Noble Warrior represents a significant opportunity for the government to market Lagos as a premier destination for cultural tourism. By aligning this initiative with the broader objectives of the state’s tourism strategy, the government can attract diplomats and international visitors eager to experience the richness of Nigerian culture. For the government, facilitating partnerships with cultural organisations and securing funding for the play will be a game changer, and showcasing the production on a grand scale would be a masterstroke.

The play is not just an artistic endeavour; it is also an essential narrative that fosters cultural identity and pride. In an era where young Nigerians often grapple with issues of identity and cultural erosion, it could serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of heritage. By integrating the play into educational curricula, particularly for secondary school students, the Lagos government can foster a deeper understanding of cultural history among the youths. This initiative could rekindle interest in literature and the arts, which have seen a decline in recent years.

Moreover, the government should consider purchasing copies of the play for high school libraries, ensuring that students have access to literature that reflects their culture. Commissioning a special version of the play tailored for school performances would further enhance its educational value and encourage engagement among young audiences.

In conclusion, the intersection of The Noble Warrior and Lagos’s tourism strategy presents a unique opportunity for the state to enhance its cultural footprint. By embracing the play, Lagos can not only honour the legacy of Wole Soyinka but also reinforce its position as a beacon of culture and creativity in Africa and beyond. This is an opportunity for Lagos to shine on the global stage, showcasing the richness of Yoruba culture and the spirit of its people.

Unity in Diversity: NUSA Inauguration and Migrant Magazine Volume 2 Launch Signal a New Era for Nigerians in South Africa

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

In what promises to be one of the most significant events in the Nigerian diaspora community, the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) will officially inaugurate its newly elected President General and executives, alongside the grand launch of Migrant Magazine, Volume 2, Issue 1. The occasion, themed around the union’s motto, “Unity in Diversity,” is set to attract an array of distinguished dignitaries, scholars, and community leaders from across South Africa.

From a vibrant gala dinner to high-level panel debates and cultural showcases, this event is more than ceremonial—it is a call to leadership, resilience, and redefined identity for Nigerians navigating the complex realities of life in South Africa.

A Star-Studded Line-Up of Leaders and Thinkers
The event will host an impressive list of guests, including:

Senator Anthony E. Yaro

Hon. Engr Bello Lawal

Ambassador Janet Lisa

Engr Dr. Sule Yakubu Basi

Professor Jude Sakwe

Professor Isike Christopher, a respected authority in African Politics and International Relations at the University of Pretoria.

Their attendance reflects the rising influence and importance of NUSA and the broader Nigerian community in South Africa’s socio-political landscape.

The Nigerian Migrant: Resilient in the Face of Adversity
The Nigerian migrant experience in South Africa is as complex as it is painful. From targeted xenophobic attacks and economic marginalization to discrimination in service delivery and law enforcement brutality, Nigerian migrants have faced a litany of challenges. These struggles are not just personal—they are structural, deepened by a narrative that paints Nigerians as threats rather than contributors.

And yet, despite these odds, Nigerians in South Africa have thrived. They have started businesses, excelled in academia, fostered inter-cultural relationships, and contributed to the economic dynamism of South African cities. They are entrepreneurs, professionals, artists, and change-makers who refuse to be defined by fear or failure.

A Visionary Leader at the Helm
At the forefront of this new era is the newly elected President General of NUSA(Hon. Barr Prince Smart I Nwobi), whose leadership has already ignited optimism within the community. His deep understanding of diplomacy, strategic community engagement, and grassroots mobilization places him in the right position to elevate NUSA to unprecedented heights.

His commitment to unity, transparency, and developmental progress offers a fresh perspective in a time when Nigerian migrants desperately need strong, empathetic representation. The community eagerly anticipates the practical implementation of his vision—a NUSA that is more visible, more vocal, and more victorious.

Honoring Royalty: Hon. Barr Prince Smart I Nwobi, the overall Prince of Awgu Egbeleli and the Ozoigbondu Ezesinachi 1
The event will also be graced by His Royal Highness, the Prince of Awgu Egbeleli, and the Ozoigbondu Ezesinachi 1 of Awgu Egbeleli, Enugu State (incoming NUSA PRESIDENT GENERAL) . These revered figures bring a powerful blend of tradition, moral authority, and cultural pride to the event. Their support for NUSA symbolizes the crucial link between cultural identity and political resilience. Their continued advocacy is not only appreciated—it is essential.

Meet the Incoming Executives
NUSA’s new executive team comprises individuals of high repute and proven dedication to community advancement. Together, they represent the diversity and richness of Nigerian talent abroad. Their portfolios cut across youth empowerment, security, welfare, communication, and economic initiatives—each role tailored to address pressing issues within the diaspora community.

These executives are not figureheads; they are foot soldiers of a cause larger than themselves: to protect, unite, and empower Nigerians in South Africa.

Migrant Magazine: Reclaiming the Narrative
The launch of Migrant Magazine Volume 2, Issue 1 adds significant intellectual depth to the event. The publication continues to be a voice for the voiceless—spotlighting stories, challenges, and triumphs of Nigerians living abroad.

This edition dives deep into topics such as:

The politics of migration

Socioeconomic survival strategies

Community resilience

The power of African solidarity

In a media landscape that often vilifies immigrants, Migrant Magazine reclaims the narrative. It is not merely a magazine—it is a movement. A literary resistance against erasure, and a platform for advocacy, awareness, and identity preservation.

Panel Debates: Talking Solutions, Not Just Problems
One of the most anticipated parts of the event will be the thought-provoking panel debates featuring scholars, diplomats, and community leaders. These discussions will confront the harsh realities faced by Nigerian migrants, with topics ranging from xenophobia and identity, to economic integration and diplomatic policy.

Panelists will offer actionable strategies, rooted in data and experience, to reposition Nigerians not as outsiders, but as integral players in South Africa’s multicultural society.

The Way Forward: From Protest to Power
If NUSA is to move from symbolic representation to real transformation, the road ahead must be paved with strategic action.

The new leadership must prioritize:

Legal representation for abused migrants
Public relations campaigns to counter anti-Nigerian stereotypes
Business support programs to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs
Diplomatic lobbying to pressure both Nigerian and South African governments to act in defense of migrant rights

Above all, the Union must foster a culture of unity. Tribalism, factionalism, and ego must be buried beneath a greater cause—survival, dignity, and collective progress.

A New Dawn for NUSA and the Nigerian Diaspora
This is more than an inauguration; it is the beginning of a new chapter. A chapter where Nigerian migrants will no longer be silent spectators to their own oppression, but bold architects of their destiny. A chapter where the Nigerian Union South Africa becomes a sanctuary of empowerment and a bastion of hope.

The presence of respected leaders, scholars, and royal figures at this event speaks volumes. The time for change is not tomorrow—it is now. And with strong leadership, a united community, and platforms like Migrant Magazine, Nigerians in South Africa are not just surviving—they are rising.

Let the bells ring. Let the drums sound. The sons and daughters of Nigeria are ready to claim their rightful place—together, proud, and unafraid.

Contact:
For media inquiries, interviews, or coverage, please contact NUSA Publicity secretary +27 78 077 3464 or visit [https://www.nigerianunion.org.za/].

Photo & Media Opportunities Available During the Gala Event