When we operate a system of biases and prejudice , brilliant individuals may be denied opportunities simply because they belong to the wrong tribe , while less qualified individuals are given the chance to succeed . This only perpetuates the cycle of mediocrity , while geniuses remain untapped and unempowered . the division it has created . Opinions are split between those who appreciate Tiwa and her performance , and those who oppose it . Detractors argue that she should not have performed at the coronation , considering the atrocities committed by the colonial establishment against her people and our ancestors . They say that these are the very individuals who exploited and sold us into slavery , as well as those responsible for the nation ’ s turmoil . While these arguments may be rooted in some degree of historical facts , the interpretation can be subjective .
perhaps none is as intriguing and shocking as the prejudice against success . Hilda Baci broke the Guinness World Record for being the chef with the longest time of continuous cooking . The record before her was 87 hours and she set a new record of 100 hours . She became an instant global phenomenon . One would think everyone would be happy at her achievement but prejudice against success is real in our society . Losers seem to draw an incredible amount of strength from trying to discredit and find fault in every achievement . They seem to have made it their mission in life to find the negative in everything good and of course with the power of their gadgets and keyboards they become social media terrorists . I think this takes the concept of prejudice to a whole new level of toxicity .
After the coronation of King Charles , one performance stood out for me - the Nigerian superstar , Tiwa Savage . It was a moment of immense pride to witness her name in the spotlight , captivating the entire world . Tiwa ’ s stellar performance showcased her remarkable talent , poise , and composure . Every aspect of her performance , including the iconic green dress - symbolic of Nigeria ’ s colour - left an indelible impression . It is an unforgettable moment that has been widely discussed in Nigerian media - both mainstream and social media .
What makes this performance intriguing is
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When we operate a system of biases and prejudice , brilliant individuals may be denied opportunities simply because they belong to the wrong tribe , while less qualified individuals are given the chance to succeed . This only perpetuates the cycle of mediocrity , while geniuses remain untapped and unempowered . the division it has created . Opinions are split between those who appreciate Tiwa and her performance , and those who oppose it . Detractors argue that she should not have performed at the coronation , considering the atrocities committed by the colonial establishment against her people and our ancestors . They say that these are the very individuals who exploited and sold us into slavery , as well as those responsible for the nation ’ s turmoil . While these arguments may be rooted in some degree of historical facts , the interpretation can be subjective .
Now , let ’ s simplify this issue . Which continent has the largest membership in the Commonwealth ? It is Africa . Despite our grievances about those who wronged us , we still answer their calls and show up when they call . Why ? Because we rely on their aid and support . If we are going to talk about pride , it should be all round and not selective . The embassies of the colonial nations on the African continent are brimming with individuals applying for visas to visit these countries . Think about it . On one hand , some argue against Tiwa ’ s presence there but simultaneously , people are desperate to secure visas and are ready to do anything to be able to go to these nations . Even some churches seeing the demand brand themselves as being gifted in praying for people to get visas . Those churches are packed because everyone is fervently praying for visas . Why do we yearn to visit the lands of our ancestors ’ oppressors ?
The truth is , we inflict more harm upon ourselves than any harm caused by colonialism . It has been over 60 years since our independence . We must take responsibility and move forward , rather than continually dwelling on past grievances . Can you imagine a 60-yearold complaining about how their parents mistreated them during childhood ?
In examining the socio-economic landscape of Nigeria , it becomes increasingly apparent that our self-imposed transgressions have inflicted far greater harm than the historical era of colonialism . Let me be clear , I do not seek to absolve colonialists of their actions , but as a person grounded in factual analysis , I believe it is time to confront the unvarnished truth .
How can we have super wealthy African leaders - among the wealthiest people on earth presiding over some of the poorest nations on earth ? This incongruity demands our attention . The inherent contradictions are perplexing . It is even more confounding to witness our leaders beseeching the international community for financial assistance yet the parade of their wealth suggests that they have come from wealthy places . How can we not see this ? What critical piece of the puzzle are we missing here ?
Continuing to lay blame solely on the colonialists for our predicament is an exercise in futility . Recent events have demonstrated that external forces cannot be held accountable for every misfortune we encounter . Therefore , it is imperative that we reassess our mindset and discard the inclination to assign blame externally . Our penchant for shifting responsibility only serves to consolidate our mediocrity . As long as we have someone to blame , we will evade accountability , and we will remain where we have been and this is precisely what has happened for six decades . Blaming them may temporarily assuage our feelings , but it also perpetuates a culture of ignorance and underachievement .
To bring about meaningful change in Africa , we must transcend this collective mindset . Our retrogressive thinking , the blame game we incessantly engage in , and our acceptance of mediocrity are the crux of our challenges . Let us align our minds with our resources . Let us get over having an appetite for things we do not produce and let production and conversion of raw materials ( including human resources ) from one form to another be at the centre of our thought process .
Extensive research reveals a disconcerting truth : Nigerian leaders , both military and political , have embezzled an astounding $ 600 billion from our nation since gaining independence . This staggering amount eclipses all the aid and loans procured by the country , exacerbating its downward spiral . It is crucial to acknowledge that this reprehensible act was not perpetrated by external forces but by our very own hands .
So , to accuse Tiwa Savage of not being patriotic because she attended and gave a stellar performance at the Kings coronation is an argument rooted in ignorance .
If you insist on being prejudiced , get your facts right before making a public display of ignorance .
Dr . Wale Akinyemi is the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of the Street University . You can commune with him on this or related matters via email at : Wale @ thestreetuniversity . com .