MUSA-ODODO ABDULRAHAMAN
The creation of humankind by the Divine was an act of collective power, where the essence of humanity was called forth from the whole of Divinity. This act established an eternal principle: humanity thrives when operating in unity. The power of the collective is the most durable and transformative force on earth, capable of achieving the seemingly impossible. When a people consciously decide to act in oneness, their combined strength aligns with the laws of nature, granting them the capacity to overcome any challenge.
In Nigeria, our most pressing challenges – be they social, economic, or security-related – are not insurmountable. They persist because we have yet to fully harness the transformative power of the collective. To do so, we must recognize that the solutions to our problems lie not in isolated efforts or fragmented agendas, but in the unified will and wisdom of the Nigerian people.
The Power of the Collective
Throughout history, societies that have understood and leveraged the power of the collective have achieved extraordinary feats. Ancient civilizations such as Egypt harnessed collective labor and ingenuity to build the pyramids, monumental structures that still defy modern comprehension. Similarly, during the Golden Age of Athens, collective intellectual effort birthed democratic governance, philosophy, and advancements in science and the arts.
In the modern era, nations like Japan rebuilt themselves after World War II through collective resolve, transforming from a war-torn country to an economic powerhouse within a few decades. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States demonstrated how the collective will of marginalized people could dismantle systemic oppression and bring about legislative and cultural change.
These examples show that when a society aligns its collective energy toward a common goal, it becomes unstoppable.
The Path Forward for Nigeria
To harness this power, Nigerians must embrace unity as a fundamental principle of national transformation. This requires deliberate action to foster inclusion, shared purpose, and a deep sense of ownership of our collective destiny. Here are practical strategies for achieving this:
- Broad National Dialogue
The first step is to convene a broad-based national dialogue that brings together Nigerians from all walks of life – academics, traditional leaders, religious leaders, youth groups, professionals, artisans, and policymakers. This dialogue must focus on addressing the root causes of Nigeria’s challenges by tapping into collective wisdom and superior knowledge.
The dialogue should be structured around key questions:
Who are we as Nigerians?
What is our shared purpose as a nation?
What foundational principles should guide our development?
Which philosophy will impel the character of our state?
What is the Nigerian Dream, and how can we achieve it?
This conversation must be inclusive, transparent, and solution-driven, with an emphasis on building consensus around a national vision that transcends ethnic, religious, and political divides.
- Strengthening Local and National Institutions
The power of the collective thrives in societies where institutions are strong, fair, and inclusive. Strengthening Nigeria’s institutions – educational, legal, political, and economic – is critical. We must ensure that these institutions work for the common good and are accessible to all Nigerians.
- Education and Civic Enlightenment
A well-informed citizenry is essential for collective action. Education must be restructured to instill critical thinking, patriotism, and a sense of responsibility in every Nigerian. Civic enlightenment campaigns can foster a deeper understanding of our shared challenges and the role each citizen can play in solving them.
- Leveraging Technology and Social Media
Technology provides a powerful platform for collective action. Social media has already demonstrated its potential in mobilizing Nigerians for causes like the #EndSARS movement. Harnessing these tools to create a national consciousness and coordinate collective efforts can amplify our impact.
- Community-driven Development
True transformation begins at the grassroots. Empowering communities to identify and solve their own challenges can create a ripple effect of progress. Government and private sector support should prioritize community-driven initiatives that align with national goals.
Conclusion
The power of the collective is Nigeria’s greatest untapped resource. By coming together in unity, driven by wisdom and a shared purpose, we can overcome our most daunting challenges and build a nation that fulfills its immense potential.
As we embark on this journey, let us learn from societies that have harnessed the power of the collective to achieve greatness. Let us recognize that our strength lies not in what divides us, but in our ability to unite as one people with one destiny.
This is a crucial call to action for every Nigerian of this generation. The time to harness the most powerful power on earth – the power of the collective – is now. Together, we can create a Nigeria that is prosperous, peaceful, and a beacon of hope for the world.
Yours for Nigeria as a Global Leader.
Abdulrahaman is the Founder of the Initiative for Discovery of Nigeria Heritage and Endowment (IDNHE).
Chairman, National Policy Dialogue.
www.nationalpolicydialogue.org