The prime imperative to evolve as Nigerians is a crucial discourse for our contemporary time. Among all related words, evolution stands out. My focus here is on humanity and individuals. I will not borrow from Charles Darwin, but will dissect our topic objectively. Evolution aligns with dynamism; it is unstoppable. When a person gains self-development from a former state to an improved status, evolution has occurred. When one experiences self-reformation, a regeneration of the heart that translates into a valuable and contented lifestyle, that is evolution.
The Need for Evolution in Nigeria
There is a dire need for individual Nigerians to experience evolution. Archaic ideas that were efficient in their time but are now anachronistic must be discarded. These unsustainable concepts are passed from parent to child, or learned, or both. Unfortunately, growth-antagonistic beliefs and superstitions have been reinforced by religion and politics. Have you been told that religion and politics are instruments of control by elites over the populace? This underscores that every race and person comes with inbred qualities and latent competence awaiting exploration.
You Must Evolve
You are bound to evolve. By hook or by crook, endeavor to gain growth. Martin Luther said, 'If you can't fly, run. If you can't run, walk. If you can't walk, crawl. But by all means, keep moving.' Stagnancy is the opposite of growth. The propensity of the average Nigerian electorate to be deceived by religious and ethnic narratives over merit will be eradicated when timely evolution, not revolution, occurs.
Education as a Platform
Education is a cardinal prerequisite for development. But in Nigeria, only less of it is enough. There seems an unwritten consensus among political elites, who benefited from free education and scholarships, to neglect education. This is exposed by strikes, poor school facilities, substandard teachers, and massive numbers of educated illiterates. These anomalies are disheartening.
The Remedy: Evolve
Evolve to become what James Dale Davidson and William Rees-Mogg call 'The Sovereign Individual.' Then you will not rely on systems that antagonize natural order. Evolve beyond religious and political whims. Escape the enslaving grip of man-made control systems. Evolve until you exit this planet to another where evolution continues. Evolve without expiring. Evolve to equanimity and contentment. Please evolve.
Steve Obum Orajiaku wrote from Lagos.
