The Future of Our Hope

H O P E, four letters for “the light at the end of the tunnel”.
I N D E P E N D E N C E, one word in the image of “FREEDOM”
Nigeria “gained” Independence from the British government on October 1st, 1960. Fast forward—56 years later—what have we done with this freedom?
Are we free, or have we merely become captives of other self-inflicted problems? Who is to blame? What can be done? Is there an end to these problems? Do we give up?
We all have different answers to the above questions; majority pointing towards the government that we have voted into offices. One would argue that our problems have been the same, with different people stressing us out (“the same nightmare, different demons” theory).
Over the years, the Nigerian has had to weather successive horrors. This year alone, Nigerians have been on the receiving end of the government’s blow. However “good” the rulers of this country claim their intentions to be, their actions have taken a toll on us.
We are now particularly facing even direr problems, with our currency value crippling businesses; leading to price hikes; difficulties and reduced standard of living, even as far as the lack of sponsorship at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Are we really independent, if after five decades we cannot exploit our self-governance to our advantage? 
However, there is still hope for our great nation. Hope for the future. A possibility of our “dream” Nigeria – the reality of a government that truly works for the people; systems that work; a blossoming economy; happy communities; and, more importantly, satisfied people.
Let us begin with our immediate environment: We’re Nigerians first; and Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, etc. second. 
Let us help one another, irrespective of our tribal identities. Renew your mentality and have a positive vision.
Let us think like the cultured intelligent people that we are.
Let us be informed.
Let us liberate our Nigeria over and over again till we are truly independent.
And let us impact good values on the little ones, who would one day become “Leaders of Tomorrow” and give Nigeria her privilege of celebrating Independence Day in its full worth in a more powerful context.
But first, we must become masters of our fate; in our private corners, the leaders of today; so that there is a future for our hope!

Photography: Tobi Ogunsemowo, AKA Hon Teezee

Models:
Precious Omoitan
Nifemi Adewole

Creative Team:
Ikpoto Joy
Oyin Oludipe
Oyinkansola Haruna
Wole, Flamez Graphics
Ajiva