Contrary to insinuations in some quarters that Nigeria’s future would always be influenced by its past, the nation’s history is indeed the least that it can ever be and is only a forerunner to a greater country, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.
Prof. Osinbajo stated this earlier today while declaring open a photo exhibition titled “the footprints of Nigeria’s political leaders”, organized to mark Nigeria’s 58th Independence anniversary in Abuja.
According to the Vice President, “I am pleased to say on behalf of the Nigerian government and people that we have chosen to say that our history will not determine our future; our history is the least that we can ever be; our future is much greater; our history is only a precursor to a Nigeria that is prosperous, united and where all of us are treated fairly and justly.”
He said “our history is only the beginning of that great Nigerian story that all of these people who have won awards represent; that they are going to be better than those of us who sit here today, these young people represent that history and pride that our nation represents.”
Speaking on the significance of the exhibition to Nigeria’s socio-political history, Prof. Osinbajo said it enables citizens to reflect on journey to nationhood with all the attendant challenges.
He said: “Each phase has tested our resolve to remain united, to maintain the integrity of the country known as Nigeria. Each phase has tested the commitment of our leaders to the Nigerian project; it has tested their ingenuity and their wisdom in navigating the frequently tortuous and turbulent waters of our national story.
“With the benefit of hindsight, I think that it is evident that at every turn we clearly saw strength of the Nigerian resolve to build a nation and the valiant attempts of the leadership at state building.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the event was put together to educate Nigerians, especially the younger generation, the significance of Nigeria’s socio-political history.
The event featured a presentation of prizes to winners of the Independence Day mini-photo exhibition competition and the flag off of the photo exhibition.
