LEADERSHIP AND ITS INEVITABLE CHALLENGES
Brethren, frankly the inconveniences I personally encountered during my last trip to Calabar in Cross River State was solely my fault. Honestly I learnt a lot of lessons in respect to what transpired that fateful day. Though, I’m not willing to disclose the real nature of the anomaly, but the experience implies that, most of the inconveniences we come across on a daily basis are due to our mistakes.
Of course it’s no longer news that, mistakes are inevitable. In other words, apparently we will continue to witness inconveniences as long as we breathe. Please don’t get me wrong; what I’m saying in essence is that, some harmful challenges we encounter in our respective lives or endeavours are simply unavoidable. I’m just appraising facts.
Come to think of it; who says he’s beyond a mistake? Sincerely I want to use this avenue to unequivocally inform you that, no one who breathes lacks a mistake. We’re all victims to mistakes sometimes, someday, or even every day, irrespective of our statuses or backgrounds. Thus, we must continue to face challenges provided we still inhale air.
Lest I forget; penultimate week, Tuesday precisely, I overhead a certain young man in my neighbourhood lamenting over a certain scenario which had to do with the correction he received from a senior colleague in his place of work. According to him, the colleague told him that he made a mistake in a proposal he submitted for approval. The said neighbour made it clear before his listeners that, he could never make a mistake in his life, stating that, his colleague was just trying to intimidate him thereby making him feel inferior. Imagine how far people can attend while bragging, or whenever they are being corrected.
Well, our topic remains, “Leadership and its inevitable challenges”. Concisely, according to the context of this edition, leadership is the state of being in control of a certain group or organization.
The prime essence of this piece is to remind us of some of the qualities a leader is expected to exhibit regardless of the nature or status of the organization he/she leads.
First and foremost, any leader is expected by his/her subjects or colleagues to be God-fearing. Believe me, apart from a leader, any God-fearing individual cannot think of lying, cheating, stealing, or hating anyone no matter the circumstances surrounding him/her.
Secondly, every leader must have a forgiving heart. He must be willing to forgive anyone who must have hurt him, especially those who cheated him while he was aspiring/contesting for the position.
Thirdly, anyone who calls himself a leader must be tolerant. A tolerant person absorbs any opinion from his colleagues or subjects without minding the nature of the opinion. Therefore, any leader must be willing to accept criticism, either constructive or destructive.
Fourthly, any leader must be courageous. Yes, a leader is expected to wear a bold skin, so that, no circumstances can break him/her. A leader must be ready to withstand any pressure or tension at all times.
Fifthly, every leader is expected to be very observant. He/she must be sensitive enough to know and comprehend every bit of what’s happening around him/her.
More so, any leader must be very careful and conscious. He must mind the kind of action he takes, and must always bite his tongue before he speaks. He must always consider and as well reconsider the consequences of any action he intends to take. He must beware of nemesis or repercussion; he should consistently have it in mind that, whatever goes around will surely come around directly, not indirectly. Yes, the evil that men do live with them, not after them as it’s popularly cited. Carefulness is a very worthwhile virtue in any leadership stride. Let’s ride on!
Inter alia, a leader must have a listening ear. He ought to be willing to gather opinions and information as much as possible. He should never create any limit as regards listening to people’s opinions or complaints.
Anyone who sees himself as a leader must be transparent. He must invariably endeavour to run an open-door policy. He must from time to time disclose to his subjects what his administration has done so far and as well seek direction from anyone. On this note, he must be accountable; accountability ought to remain his watchword.
Above all, every leader is expected to wear a human face in every occasion he finds himself, even if the tempo of the antagonisms from the opposition is extremely high. Needless to say that, a leader is expected to carry everyone along regardless of where the member is coming from. In addition, a leader is expected to be liberal, magnanimous, and generous, but he ought to be strict. Mind you; there is a dichotomy between strictness and wickedness, or lack of magnanimity. Surely, strictness is a welcome idiosyncrasy. Please, meet me for further explanation so you won’t go astray in your presumption.
Lastly, but not the least, any leader must be humble; humility should remain his motto at all costs. He must always turn his back on arrogance. Therefore, he must always be ready to welcome corrections due to his mistakes. Believe me, arrogance which often leads to bragging constantly brings or contributes to the downfall of any man, knowingly or unknowingly. I also want to let you know that, there’s a contrast between pride (ego) and arrogance; pride is worthwhile. To be frank, one without pride is worthless. So beware! Please, kindly mail me for details.
Having noted the qualities of a leader or any leadership that are worthy of emulation, we must also note that, there’re some certain inevitable challenges that invariably accompany any leadership, be it social, political, religious, or what have you. These are: criticism, antagonism, fanaticism, extremism, hypocrisy, sycophancy, death, envy, and human insatiable nature.
Criticism must surface in any administration; it’s as old as the world. Don’t forget that, a criticism may be constructive or destructive. Whatever the case might be, a leader must be willing and ready to accommodate any criticism. Mind you, constructive criticisms are worthwhile!
Also, antagonism or envy are always witness in any leadership. The gesture is mostly exhibited by those who wish to occupy the position of the present leader, and they’re often tagged “the opposition”.
Fanaticism or extremism are not left out; they can be showcased by any member of the administration or any of the subjects. It has to do with what one’s individual self strongly believes in. Thus, he/she would continue to stick to that ideology thereby constituting an unfavourable and unhealthy circumstance to the administration. Surely, any leader must be ready to encounter such attributes.
Hypocrisy or sycophancy are other gestures a leader must receive from members of his/her administration or any of his subjects. Most grievously, sometimes people/someone may impersonate the leader in order to gain favour or obtain their selfish wants, at the expense of the healthiness of the administration.
Furthermore, due to human insatiable nature, most of the accomplishments of a certain leader may not be appreciated by some/most of his subjects. Suffice to say; to the sight of those in question, the leader hasn’t done anything yet to their delight. This is a challenge every leader must be prepared to experience because it’s also inevitable.
Above all, death is a grievous experience that often seem to cripple any administration; whenever it occurs, it appears as if the leadership cannot function properly again. For instance, a staunch and reliable member of a certain administration may kick the bucket when his/her services or opinions are mostly needed. Such anomaly will definitely weigh the leader down, thereby crippling his/her administration. We must all know that death is inevitable, therefore, must always be willing to accept its hurt or the vacuum it might create. Even if one dies as a leader, there must be a substitute; this is a bitter fact we must all bear in mind.
At this juncture, I urge every leader, including the potential ones, to acknowledge the fact that he/she remains the Moses of the organization he leads. Thus, must bear in mind that, he must surely lead them to the promise-land. Any result less than this would be seen as an aberration.
Don’t forget, mistakes made by a leader are often the sole cause of the challenges mentioned above. Though mistakes are inevitable, but mind you, the level of mistakes made by someone can be controlled or minimized if only he becomes extremely careful. Therefore, carefulness summarizes everything.
Meanwhile, challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes it meaningful. Think about it!
_______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Monday 24 February 2014
Farewell Note To The Outgone Imo State Police Commissioner
MY FAREWELL NOTE TO THE OUTGONE IMO STATE POLICE COMMISSIONER
Brethren, I want to use this avenue to candidly disabuse you of the belief that, any child born with a ‘silver spoon’ can attain to his/her desired height regardless of the level of effort involved. Let me quickly use this wonderful opportunity to remind you of my usual citation which states that, any child is a product of nature and nurture. Believe me, I grew up to train myself with such belief; and it’s a fancy fact.
Let me throw more light on what I mean by a child being a product of ‘nature and nurture’. Considering nature; you would bear me witness that, any child is formed, born and sustained by the sole effort of nature. On the other hand; for any born child to be a useful member of the family he/she hails from, he must had been well nurtured by the family in question. In other words, a child can never be useful to either his family or society without passing through a thorough and severe nurture by his/her parents or guardian.
I wish to put up a brief question at this juncture. And the question is; have you ever for once dreamt of seeing your junior colleague or your younger one at home chasing you for the sole purpose of intimidating you? Such manner of dream is not unconnected to witnessing a scene whereby the Secretary of a certain club/society presides over the club’s meeting right in the presence of the president of the said club. Believe me, anyone in his right senses who witnesses such dream or scenario must be bemused thereby embracing a state of incapacity. Nevertheless, pardon me for I’ve digressed.
Few weeks ago, during my last trip to Enugu State for a business transaction, as soon as I switched on my radio set for the news of the day, I was informed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar had ordered the redeployment, with immediate effect, of eighteen (18) Police Commissioners to various Commands and Formations of the Force across the federation. On receiving the striking news, I quickly picked up my phone and dialed the phone number of one of my fellow Imo State based Social activists to ascertain if the state in question was affected. Shockingly, the crusader told me that Imo State was one of the affected states. Honestly, I abruptly became devastated and incapacitated by the mode of the message. Truly, the information took my person to a state of incapacity. In fact, the news was really a shocker.
As an Imo State based Crime/Social analyst, I’m in a good and better position to inform you that the outgoing Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Musa Katsina, has recorded tremendous achievements in the history of the state in the area of security or Protection of lives and property. Suffice to say that, the pronouncement of his redeployment from the state wasn’t just a shocker to my person, but to the state at large. The 637 autonomous communities in the state would testify to this fact.
Without mincing words, prior to the inception of duty of the outgoing Police Commissioner, the crime rate in Imo State was unquantifiable; a condition that kept the entire occupants of the State in a state of imbroglio. Even the blind could see as at then that, Imo was right in the hands of our enemies. Let’s ride on!
Since the stay of the outgoing CP and his entire team in Imo State, it has been as if God has finally answered the prayers of the occupants of the state in its entirety, as regards security. Everyone has been sleeping with his/her eyes well closed, unlike as it was in the past. Inter alia, it was only during his time/administration, that I understood fully, the real meaning and essence of Community Policing; every nook and cranny of the state has been totally under control till date. Needless to say; the outgoing Police boss was not just a ‘silencer’, but a God-sent.
I also want to use this medium to appreciate the pleasant Governor of the great State, Chief Rochas Okorocha, for his vigorous mission to see that the crime rate in the state is reduced to the barest minimum; I can’t thank him enough.
I sincerely want to inform the entire Imolites that, CP Mohammed Katsina came to nurture the security structure of the gigantic state (Imo) which was founded by nature itself. This was the only reason we were able to attain the present desired and anticipated height. My prayer remains that, his successor would work more effectively and efficiently to see that Imo got to its Promise-land.
My impeccable outgoing CP Sir, we all pray that as you leave Imo for a tougher and more challenging concernment ahead, God in His infinite mercy would continue to guide and guard you till you arrive at the peak of your service. I want to rightly inform you that, the entire members of Imo Fans Fortress (IMOFAF) – an NGO that fosters unionism among all Imo State occupants, which Comr. Fred Nwaozor is the Leader, is deeply pleased by the potent and selfless service you rendered to the ‘Eastern Heartland’. But, when shall Imo receive your warm handshake or see your enticing and charming face again? A question I would love you to answer without hesitation.
My fellow Imolites, truly Imo was born with a silver spoon, but insecurity and societal social-vices in the state has become a thing of the past due to the unending nurture granted to it by the outgoing Police boss and his team in general with the support and willingness of the Governor of the state, by the special grace of the Almighty. Think about it!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, I want to use this avenue to candidly disabuse you of the belief that, any child born with a ‘silver spoon’ can attain to his/her desired height regardless of the level of effort involved. Let me quickly use this wonderful opportunity to remind you of my usual citation which states that, any child is a product of nature and nurture. Believe me, I grew up to train myself with such belief; and it’s a fancy fact.
Let me throw more light on what I mean by a child being a product of ‘nature and nurture’. Considering nature; you would bear me witness that, any child is formed, born and sustained by the sole effort of nature. On the other hand; for any born child to be a useful member of the family he/she hails from, he must had been well nurtured by the family in question. In other words, a child can never be useful to either his family or society without passing through a thorough and severe nurture by his/her parents or guardian.
I wish to put up a brief question at this juncture. And the question is; have you ever for once dreamt of seeing your junior colleague or your younger one at home chasing you for the sole purpose of intimidating you? Such manner of dream is not unconnected to witnessing a scene whereby the Secretary of a certain club/society presides over the club’s meeting right in the presence of the president of the said club. Believe me, anyone in his right senses who witnesses such dream or scenario must be bemused thereby embracing a state of incapacity. Nevertheless, pardon me for I’ve digressed.
Few weeks ago, during my last trip to Enugu State for a business transaction, as soon as I switched on my radio set for the news of the day, I was informed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar had ordered the redeployment, with immediate effect, of eighteen (18) Police Commissioners to various Commands and Formations of the Force across the federation. On receiving the striking news, I quickly picked up my phone and dialed the phone number of one of my fellow Imo State based Social activists to ascertain if the state in question was affected. Shockingly, the crusader told me that Imo State was one of the affected states. Honestly, I abruptly became devastated and incapacitated by the mode of the message. Truly, the information took my person to a state of incapacity. In fact, the news was really a shocker.
As an Imo State based Crime/Social analyst, I’m in a good and better position to inform you that the outgoing Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Musa Katsina, has recorded tremendous achievements in the history of the state in the area of security or Protection of lives and property. Suffice to say that, the pronouncement of his redeployment from the state wasn’t just a shocker to my person, but to the state at large. The 637 autonomous communities in the state would testify to this fact.
Without mincing words, prior to the inception of duty of the outgoing Police Commissioner, the crime rate in Imo State was unquantifiable; a condition that kept the entire occupants of the State in a state of imbroglio. Even the blind could see as at then that, Imo was right in the hands of our enemies. Let’s ride on!
Since the stay of the outgoing CP and his entire team in Imo State, it has been as if God has finally answered the prayers of the occupants of the state in its entirety, as regards security. Everyone has been sleeping with his/her eyes well closed, unlike as it was in the past. Inter alia, it was only during his time/administration, that I understood fully, the real meaning and essence of Community Policing; every nook and cranny of the state has been totally under control till date. Needless to say; the outgoing Police boss was not just a ‘silencer’, but a God-sent.
I also want to use this medium to appreciate the pleasant Governor of the great State, Chief Rochas Okorocha, for his vigorous mission to see that the crime rate in the state is reduced to the barest minimum; I can’t thank him enough.
I sincerely want to inform the entire Imolites that, CP Mohammed Katsina came to nurture the security structure of the gigantic state (Imo) which was founded by nature itself. This was the only reason we were able to attain the present desired and anticipated height. My prayer remains that, his successor would work more effectively and efficiently to see that Imo got to its Promise-land.
My impeccable outgoing CP Sir, we all pray that as you leave Imo for a tougher and more challenging concernment ahead, God in His infinite mercy would continue to guide and guard you till you arrive at the peak of your service. I want to rightly inform you that, the entire members of Imo Fans Fortress (IMOFAF) – an NGO that fosters unionism among all Imo State occupants, which Comr. Fred Nwaozor is the Leader, is deeply pleased by the potent and selfless service you rendered to the ‘Eastern Heartland’. But, when shall Imo receive your warm handshake or see your enticing and charming face again? A question I would love you to answer without hesitation.
My fellow Imolites, truly Imo was born with a silver spoon, but insecurity and societal social-vices in the state has become a thing of the past due to the unending nurture granted to it by the outgoing Police boss and his team in general with the support and willingness of the Governor of the state, by the special grace of the Almighty. Think about it!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Nigeria, INEC And the Elections in Anticipation
NIGERIA, INEC AND THE ELECTIONS IN ANTICIPATION
Brethren, it’s popularly cited that ‘It’s better late than never’. Believe me, most of us are yet to know the prime essence of that citation. For some of us who knows the essence or significance of the famous quotation, how would you throw more light on it if you were asked to do so?
As for me; ‘it’s better late than never’ simply means that, it is better one comes late to an event than being marked absent. In other words, it means, it’s better you’re being known by your colleagues as a latecomer than being recognized as a regular absentee. You can tweet me at ‘fdnnwaozor’ for further clarification. Please, pardon my preamble; I just decided to commence with such analysis. But as we proceed, you will acknowledge its relevance.
Barely three nights ago, February 7 precisely – at exactly eleven O’clock, I was faced with a serious and thorough meditation as regards the present state of the Nigerian society in respect to her socio-political sector. At the end of the said meditation, I concluded that one thing was missing in Nigeria’s polity in its entirety, and that had been the root of our collective plight. And till date, that thing is still missing. Without mincing words, that “thing” remains sincerity coupled with transparency. Please I’m just thinking aloud; therefore, I’m humbly letting out my opinion which can be countered by any interested person. If you have any contrary view, kindly drop it on my official Facebook page, http://facebook.com/fred4nwaozor.
For crying out loud, Nigeria is of age. Fifty three years is neither fifty-three days nor fifty-three weeks. It beats my psyche to realize that most Nigerians are yet to know that Nigeria is truly of age, going by the manner they treat the country in question. Most pathetically, they’ve turned the ‘giant of Africa’ to a thing of mockery. Isn’t it wickedness? Well, still thinking aloud; though sooner or later, I would be communicating loudly.
The fancy fact remains that, Nigeria has been abused greatly by her subjects. How can we be repeating just one issue, which is corruption, on a daily basis; does it implies that, we don’t know the actual remedy to put such cankerworm to stop? As far as I’m concerned, this is simply insincerity. Let’s ride on!
Just few days ago, the House of Representatives suspended the consideration of the national budget due to non compliance of the Fiscal Responsibility Acts. And my singular question is; how can such vital and critical aspect of the budget be missing or incomplete in spite of the fact that, budget approval by the National Assembly remains an annual ritual? Very soon the first quarter of this year (2014) would round off, still the budget for the said year is yet to be approved. Who is deceiving who? Still thinking aloud; or, if you wish to answer it, you can kindly forward your response to my innocent e-mail address.
Furthermore, the polity has been filled with enormous uproar in regard to the forthcoming elections. The funniest part is that, lately, even the ‘touts’ have been speaking as if they own this country. The aforementioned pandemonium has abruptly become ubiquitous, which implies that, no one is safe if we decide to remain mere onlookers as the days unfold.
It’s no longer news that, the national Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Atahiru Jega, has announced to the public recently that, he wouldn’t guarantee perfect elections in Nigeria come 2015. How can the boss of a committee in charge of a certain concernment be exercising skepticism as regards actualization of perfection? We universally know that no one has ever attained perfection, but still, we all struggle to attain the perfect line on a daily basis. On this note; even if one embraces some elements of doubt towards attaining perfection, courtesy demands that, such vision or feeling shouldn’t be disclosed to his/her fans or well wishers because such disclosure might warrant unquantifiable panic among the people in question. But on a second thought, why must one exercise doubt towards arriving at the peak; isn’t it despair?
At this juncture, I urge each of everyone of us to search our respective consciences because, I’m of the view that we’ve all derailed tremendously. Mind you, it’s better late than never.
I can’t see how someone born with silver spoon could be dinning with rotten one even as a grown-up. Isn’t it absurd? Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, it’s popularly cited that ‘It’s better late than never’. Believe me, most of us are yet to know the prime essence of that citation. For some of us who knows the essence or significance of the famous quotation, how would you throw more light on it if you were asked to do so?
As for me; ‘it’s better late than never’ simply means that, it is better one comes late to an event than being marked absent. In other words, it means, it’s better you’re being known by your colleagues as a latecomer than being recognized as a regular absentee. You can tweet me at ‘fdnnwaozor’ for further clarification. Please, pardon my preamble; I just decided to commence with such analysis. But as we proceed, you will acknowledge its relevance.
Barely three nights ago, February 7 precisely – at exactly eleven O’clock, I was faced with a serious and thorough meditation as regards the present state of the Nigerian society in respect to her socio-political sector. At the end of the said meditation, I concluded that one thing was missing in Nigeria’s polity in its entirety, and that had been the root of our collective plight. And till date, that thing is still missing. Without mincing words, that “thing” remains sincerity coupled with transparency. Please I’m just thinking aloud; therefore, I’m humbly letting out my opinion which can be countered by any interested person. If you have any contrary view, kindly drop it on my official Facebook page, http://facebook.com/fred4nwaozor.
For crying out loud, Nigeria is of age. Fifty three years is neither fifty-three days nor fifty-three weeks. It beats my psyche to realize that most Nigerians are yet to know that Nigeria is truly of age, going by the manner they treat the country in question. Most pathetically, they’ve turned the ‘giant of Africa’ to a thing of mockery. Isn’t it wickedness? Well, still thinking aloud; though sooner or later, I would be communicating loudly.
The fancy fact remains that, Nigeria has been abused greatly by her subjects. How can we be repeating just one issue, which is corruption, on a daily basis; does it implies that, we don’t know the actual remedy to put such cankerworm to stop? As far as I’m concerned, this is simply insincerity. Let’s ride on!
Just few days ago, the House of Representatives suspended the consideration of the national budget due to non compliance of the Fiscal Responsibility Acts. And my singular question is; how can such vital and critical aspect of the budget be missing or incomplete in spite of the fact that, budget approval by the National Assembly remains an annual ritual? Very soon the first quarter of this year (2014) would round off, still the budget for the said year is yet to be approved. Who is deceiving who? Still thinking aloud; or, if you wish to answer it, you can kindly forward your response to my innocent e-mail address.
Furthermore, the polity has been filled with enormous uproar in regard to the forthcoming elections. The funniest part is that, lately, even the ‘touts’ have been speaking as if they own this country. The aforementioned pandemonium has abruptly become ubiquitous, which implies that, no one is safe if we decide to remain mere onlookers as the days unfold.
It’s no longer news that, the national Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Atahiru Jega, has announced to the public recently that, he wouldn’t guarantee perfect elections in Nigeria come 2015. How can the boss of a committee in charge of a certain concernment be exercising skepticism as regards actualization of perfection? We universally know that no one has ever attained perfection, but still, we all struggle to attain the perfect line on a daily basis. On this note; even if one embraces some elements of doubt towards attaining perfection, courtesy demands that, such vision or feeling shouldn’t be disclosed to his/her fans or well wishers because such disclosure might warrant unquantifiable panic among the people in question. But on a second thought, why must one exercise doubt towards arriving at the peak; isn’t it despair?
At this juncture, I urge each of everyone of us to search our respective consciences because, I’m of the view that we’ve all derailed tremendously. Mind you, it’s better late than never.
I can’t see how someone born with silver spoon could be dinning with rotten one even as a grown-up. Isn’t it absurd? Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
The Dawn of a New Era in Oru East LGA
THE DAWN OF ANOTHER ERA IN ORU EAST LGA: MY CANDID NOTE TO THE TC-CHAIRMAN
Brethren, today is truly bright or would I say, it’s grinning at us. Having noted the worthwhile countenance of this day, apparently, throughout today would yield a thing of joy. Thus, we’re indeed convinced that, nature has once again ushered us into another joyous day.
Personally, each time I wake up from my long-lasted night slumber, I usually ask myself a certain question which may seem peculiar to you all. A question that remains constant and consistent to my entire person. And the question is, “How would my name sound to my people today?” When I say ‘my people’, I mean all those who have been by my side, which includes my friends, fans, relatives, well-wishers, colleagues (associates), and as well my kinsmen.
Penultimate month, January 2 to be precise, I was opportune to dine with my old time friends from different walks of life, at Owerri metropolis. In the midst of the pleasant conversation, one of us raised a point in respect to the present Nigerian political system. Conclusively, we unanimously agreed that, politics has abruptly become a “business venture” to most Nigerian politicians. But at last, I succeeded in convincing them that there’s a way forward to such ugly scenario; though time and space may not permit me to disclose the candid opinion I submitted to that assembly (forum) which was made-up of fully learned men and women from different parts of Imo State.
Please, kindly pardon the digression, though it was consequential and relevant because, any work or piece without a preamble (preface) or prologue as the case may be, might not be comprehensible to the entire audience or observers. My paramount desire in anything I say or do is to ensure that everyone understands my language or footstep respectively. Let’s ride on!
On Thursday January 23 - 2014, a remarkable history was recorded in Oru East Local Government Area (LGA). It was the day a new Transition Committee (TC) Chairman was inaugurated for the said LGA, alongside other LGAs in Imo State, by the Governor of the State, Chief Rochas Okorocha. An inauguration that was long awaited by the entire people of Oru East due to the implicit respect they have for the appointee, Barr. Obinna Augustus Amagwula.
No doubt, a tangible history was made on that fateful day the aforementioned Barrister was sworn in. This singular opinion was due to several conclusions I’ve arrived at; from my sole observation, Hon. Amagwula is a practicing Lawyer par Excellence, an exuberant and competent youth, a gentleman to the core, and one who hails from a parental background of no questionable character. As a bona-fide indigene of Oru-East, Awo-Omamma precisely which the person in question also hails from, I’m in a good and better position to observe every bit of his person or image.
Hon. Amagwula Addressing His People After His Inauguration
Of course with no atom of skepticism, a young man who single-handedly cited the “Imo Anthem” to his people’s delight during the occasion of his assumption of office at the Council headquarters – Omuma on Monday 27th January – 2014, deserves to be addressed as an ‘exuberant and competent’ youth. I also want to bring to your notice that Hon. Amagwula who’s the Chairman of the Coalition of Imo State Lawyers based in Abuja, was a member of the Counsel that brought the recent victory to the eminent Governor of Imo State at the Apex Court, by the special grace of the Almighty. In the same vein, he has been crowned by his people as the youngest serving TC – Chairman in the whole of Imo State. And if properly checked, he ought to be one of the youngest Council Chairmen, if not the youngest, that has ever been produced in Imo State. These and more are some of the reasons the people of Oru East see him as the right person that can deliver the Council or that would lead the Council to its desired promise-land. Suffice to say that, they’ve tagged him as the “Moses” of their time. No wonder, the overall members of Oru Youths Platform (OYOPLA), an umbrella body for all the youths in Oru Ancient Kingdom - which comprises of Oru East/West LGAs, addressed the recognition as “Placing a round peg in a round hole”. Mind you, I’m not eulogizing anyone here; frankly I’m just earning my view based on my observation as a concerned social analyst.
At this juncture, I wish to unequivocally use this avenue to submit my candid note (advice) to my newly inaugurated TC – Chairman, Hon. Barr. Obinna Amagwula, if truly he wants his administration to yield the best so far. The proposed advice is also applicable to other TC – Chairmen in Imo State.
First and foremost, I urge him to be a forgiving leader. He should be willing to forgive people at all times; most especially, those whom must have wronged him at the long-run. Thus, he ought to endeavour to give everyone a sense of belonging.
Secondly, he should be very observant. He’s expected to know every bit of what’s happening in the Council in its entirety. Therefore, he must stretch out his tentacles to the lengths and breadths of all the six major towns comprising of ninety Autonomous Communities that make up the LGA. So, he’s expected to increase his level of sensitivity, but ought to pay less attention to inconsequential and trivial issues. Most importantly, he must beware of sycophants.
Thirdly, he ought to grant all his subjects a listening ear; most especially, members of his Transition Committee (TC). I urge him to carry everyone along, thus, must shun any iota of segregation. Listen to everything, but don’t utilize or make use of all.
Fourthly, I expect my Honourable Chairman to be tolerant at all occasions. Please Sir, welcome every advice or comment from the opposition, the elders, present and past leaders of the Council, your fellow youths; even the children or toddlers are not left out. Please keep your door widely open for criticisms because they must surely surface. Criticism, antagonism, sycophancy, rumour mongering and what have you, are natural; they’re as old as the world, if not older. Even Christ was criticized. Nevertheless, bear it in mind that constructive criticism is a worthwhile gesture; it enables any administration or government to grow adequately. Let’s proceed!
Fifthly, he should always be courageous. Never he embrace despair irrespective of the circumstance. Lately, I’ve come to realize that, despair is one of the grievous sins, if not the worst, in existence. So my dear brother and friend, do not allow any pressure or distraction becloud your reasoning faculty or sense of reasoning.
Inter alia, I sincerely urge him to be transparent. As a leader that is largely accepted by his people which is not unconnected to how the members of the Council turned out en masse on the day he assumed duty, he should invariably come closer to them, so that, they can easily access him. He ought to run an open door policy to enable his people know him too well. Be open to all; do not despise any person or group regardless of age, background or status. On this note, you should constantly and consistently call for an Assembly which must involved every member of the Council including the opposition. Such gesture would be an avenue where everybody would be expected to earn his/her view. You would also use the medium to inform them on what your administration has done so far, and the way forward.
Above all, he should often endeavour to wear a human face whenever he’s with his people or addressing any issue, no matter how sad or devastating the matter might be. Thus, I sincerely urge him to always control his emotions. In other words, let his emotions be under his control. I’m not a lawyer, but I wish to rest my case at this point. A word is enough for the wise.
My able and impeccable Chairman, I’m of the view that, if you wholly absorb the above note, Oru East LGA which has been known for years to be a byword for sycophancy and hypocrisy, would be an LGA to positively reckon with in near future. Honestly you require nothing but the best out of this concernment because this is just your stepping stone. Besides, you don’t deserve any honour such as “Second Best”; rather, what you deserve is “Second to None”.
Don’t forget; each time you wake up from sleep, endeavour to ask yourself, “how would my name sound to my people today?” Think about it, while I continue to pray for you, your administration and the entire Oru East!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, today is truly bright or would I say, it’s grinning at us. Having noted the worthwhile countenance of this day, apparently, throughout today would yield a thing of joy. Thus, we’re indeed convinced that, nature has once again ushered us into another joyous day.
Personally, each time I wake up from my long-lasted night slumber, I usually ask myself a certain question which may seem peculiar to you all. A question that remains constant and consistent to my entire person. And the question is, “How would my name sound to my people today?” When I say ‘my people’, I mean all those who have been by my side, which includes my friends, fans, relatives, well-wishers, colleagues (associates), and as well my kinsmen.
Penultimate month, January 2 to be precise, I was opportune to dine with my old time friends from different walks of life, at Owerri metropolis. In the midst of the pleasant conversation, one of us raised a point in respect to the present Nigerian political system. Conclusively, we unanimously agreed that, politics has abruptly become a “business venture” to most Nigerian politicians. But at last, I succeeded in convincing them that there’s a way forward to such ugly scenario; though time and space may not permit me to disclose the candid opinion I submitted to that assembly (forum) which was made-up of fully learned men and women from different parts of Imo State.
Please, kindly pardon the digression, though it was consequential and relevant because, any work or piece without a preamble (preface) or prologue as the case may be, might not be comprehensible to the entire audience or observers. My paramount desire in anything I say or do is to ensure that everyone understands my language or footstep respectively. Let’s ride on!
On Thursday January 23 - 2014, a remarkable history was recorded in Oru East Local Government Area (LGA). It was the day a new Transition Committee (TC) Chairman was inaugurated for the said LGA, alongside other LGAs in Imo State, by the Governor of the State, Chief Rochas Okorocha. An inauguration that was long awaited by the entire people of Oru East due to the implicit respect they have for the appointee, Barr. Obinna Augustus Amagwula.
No doubt, a tangible history was made on that fateful day the aforementioned Barrister was sworn in. This singular opinion was due to several conclusions I’ve arrived at; from my sole observation, Hon. Amagwula is a practicing Lawyer par Excellence, an exuberant and competent youth, a gentleman to the core, and one who hails from a parental background of no questionable character. As a bona-fide indigene of Oru-East, Awo-Omamma precisely which the person in question also hails from, I’m in a good and better position to observe every bit of his person or image.
Of course with no atom of skepticism, a young man who single-handedly cited the “Imo Anthem” to his people’s delight during the occasion of his assumption of office at the Council headquarters – Omuma on Monday 27th January – 2014, deserves to be addressed as an ‘exuberant and competent’ youth. I also want to bring to your notice that Hon. Amagwula who’s the Chairman of the Coalition of Imo State Lawyers based in Abuja, was a member of the Counsel that brought the recent victory to the eminent Governor of Imo State at the Apex Court, by the special grace of the Almighty. In the same vein, he has been crowned by his people as the youngest serving TC – Chairman in the whole of Imo State. And if properly checked, he ought to be one of the youngest Council Chairmen, if not the youngest, that has ever been produced in Imo State. These and more are some of the reasons the people of Oru East see him as the right person that can deliver the Council or that would lead the Council to its desired promise-land. Suffice to say that, they’ve tagged him as the “Moses” of their time. No wonder, the overall members of Oru Youths Platform (OYOPLA), an umbrella body for all the youths in Oru Ancient Kingdom - which comprises of Oru East/West LGAs, addressed the recognition as “Placing a round peg in a round hole”. Mind you, I’m not eulogizing anyone here; frankly I’m just earning my view based on my observation as a concerned social analyst.
At this juncture, I wish to unequivocally use this avenue to submit my candid note (advice) to my newly inaugurated TC – Chairman, Hon. Barr. Obinna Amagwula, if truly he wants his administration to yield the best so far. The proposed advice is also applicable to other TC – Chairmen in Imo State.
First and foremost, I urge him to be a forgiving leader. He should be willing to forgive people at all times; most especially, those whom must have wronged him at the long-run. Thus, he ought to endeavour to give everyone a sense of belonging.
Secondly, he should be very observant. He’s expected to know every bit of what’s happening in the Council in its entirety. Therefore, he must stretch out his tentacles to the lengths and breadths of all the six major towns comprising of ninety Autonomous Communities that make up the LGA. So, he’s expected to increase his level of sensitivity, but ought to pay less attention to inconsequential and trivial issues. Most importantly, he must beware of sycophants.
Thirdly, he ought to grant all his subjects a listening ear; most especially, members of his Transition Committee (TC). I urge him to carry everyone along, thus, must shun any iota of segregation. Listen to everything, but don’t utilize or make use of all.
Fourthly, I expect my Honourable Chairman to be tolerant at all occasions. Please Sir, welcome every advice or comment from the opposition, the elders, present and past leaders of the Council, your fellow youths; even the children or toddlers are not left out. Please keep your door widely open for criticisms because they must surely surface. Criticism, antagonism, sycophancy, rumour mongering and what have you, are natural; they’re as old as the world, if not older. Even Christ was criticized. Nevertheless, bear it in mind that constructive criticism is a worthwhile gesture; it enables any administration or government to grow adequately. Let’s proceed!
Fifthly, he should always be courageous. Never he embrace despair irrespective of the circumstance. Lately, I’ve come to realize that, despair is one of the grievous sins, if not the worst, in existence. So my dear brother and friend, do not allow any pressure or distraction becloud your reasoning faculty or sense of reasoning.
Inter alia, I sincerely urge him to be transparent. As a leader that is largely accepted by his people which is not unconnected to how the members of the Council turned out en masse on the day he assumed duty, he should invariably come closer to them, so that, they can easily access him. He ought to run an open door policy to enable his people know him too well. Be open to all; do not despise any person or group regardless of age, background or status. On this note, you should constantly and consistently call for an Assembly which must involved every member of the Council including the opposition. Such gesture would be an avenue where everybody would be expected to earn his/her view. You would also use the medium to inform them on what your administration has done so far, and the way forward.
Above all, he should often endeavour to wear a human face whenever he’s with his people or addressing any issue, no matter how sad or devastating the matter might be. Thus, I sincerely urge him to always control his emotions. In other words, let his emotions be under his control. I’m not a lawyer, but I wish to rest my case at this point. A word is enough for the wise.
My able and impeccable Chairman, I’m of the view that, if you wholly absorb the above note, Oru East LGA which has been known for years to be a byword for sycophancy and hypocrisy, would be an LGA to positively reckon with in near future. Honestly you require nothing but the best out of this concernment because this is just your stepping stone. Besides, you don’t deserve any honour such as “Second Best”; rather, what you deserve is “Second to None”.
Don’t forget; each time you wake up from sleep, endeavour to ask yourself, “how would my name sound to my people today?” Think about it, while I continue to pray for you, your administration and the entire Oru East!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
African Leadership Tussle
NATURE OF LEADERSHIP TUSSLE IN AFRICAN SOCIETY
Brethren, I can’t seize to greet you or recognize your presence each time I stand on this podium; or, whenever I face this noble congregation. Because, no doubt without you, there wouldn’t be me. Needless to say that, I indeed love you all. Suffice to say; each time I remember you, I grin.
Last night, I unusually encountered a very horrible dream. I won’t disclose to you the real content of the said dream but the factual point remains that, the true nature of it was horrendous. Also, I won’t tell you whom the dream concerns or is related to. Maybe I’m trying to be discreet.
Lest I forget; whenever you have a nightmare, the first thing you must do as soon as you wake up is to search your conscience. Yes, at that point, you would be expected to ask yourself some certain vital questions. By thoroughly searching your conscience, you would ascertain if your person deserves the reality of the nightmare. Then having done that, the next thing you would do is to totally submit yourself to your creator. Only you knows whom you call or regard as your ‘creator’. Having submitted yourself to your creator, the last but not the least thing you must do is to ensure that you abstain completely from anything whatsoever that has the tendency of attracting the wrath of the nightmare. Thus, you must in subsequent time, be extremely careful and as well apply deep caution. But mind you; some nightmares are hallucinations. The treatment of such anomaly is related to psychotherapy rather than religious or physical means.
Few weeks ago, a friend who used to be my colleague called me on phone from Canada where he presently resides. Amazingly, instead of asking me of Nigeria in particular, he came up with the issue of Africa in its entirety. His first question after the usual exchange of pleasantry was, ‘How is Africa?’ To be frank, initially I expected him to commence with Imo State which I know he also hails from, but on the contrary, he derailed. Though I wouldn’t say he derailed because I’m of the view that, he was deeply touched and concerned over the issue of African polity in general. Honestly, if I were in his shoes, I would do same; or would I say, I would have ‘derailed’ too.
In respect to my friend’s enquiry, firstly I hurriedly informed him that the African society as a whole was still battling with her usual ‘bloody’ nature as regards leadership tussle. I further told him that, that of the recent time has been quite alarming and more bloodier, instead of being less due to the unfriendly experiences encountered in the past. Finally, I candidly disclosed to him that, we’re the cause of our plights because we’ve failed to embrace sincerity coupled with transparency. Let’s ride on!
Frankly, I unequivocally state that from my singular view, we Africans are the sole cause of the ongoing predicament that has been predominant in our polity. If not, how can someone in his/her ‘right senses’ continue to adore self-deceit, which I had earlier tagged as one of the most psychological problems being faced by mankind? Maybe you don’t seem to comprehend the above critique that might seem harsh; so, let me make the picture more clearer.
How can a person who rightly knows that ‘A’ is the sole answer to a given question continue ticking ‘B’ from the option provided regardless of the damages such lackadaisical attitude is bringing to his/her person? Isn’t it abnormal or sort of ‘mental disorder’? In other words, our problem is strictly psychological. Take it anywhere, and I shall prove it to you in a language you would understand easily.
It’s no longer news that, my parents hail from Africa, I was born in Africa, and presently I reside in Africa, Nigeria to be precise. Therefore, at my age and status, I’m in the right position to know fully the actual origin (genesis), features, and fate of the universal polity of the African society with regard to the nature of her ongoing leadership tussle.
Africa is a continent specially created and blessed with enormous human and natural resources. Inter alia, it’s blessed with various human and agricultural friendly atmospheric conditions. Still, it remains one of the most poorest continents across the globe, which is not unconnected to the manner in which the respective countries that constitute the continent elect their leaders. Though, I sincerely thank God that, in spite of the level of the decadence, her (African) subjects seem to remain hyper-exuberant and tireless.
Brethren, at this juncture I tell you, it’s high time for holistic deliverance. Yes we have collectively sinned greatly, thus, we must all rise for this long awaited thorough penance and psychological deliverance because this is the rightful and ripe time for it. Mind you, we might not be opportune to embrace a second chance. On this note, I say, Africa arise. Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, I can’t seize to greet you or recognize your presence each time I stand on this podium; or, whenever I face this noble congregation. Because, no doubt without you, there wouldn’t be me. Needless to say that, I indeed love you all. Suffice to say; each time I remember you, I grin.
Last night, I unusually encountered a very horrible dream. I won’t disclose to you the real content of the said dream but the factual point remains that, the true nature of it was horrendous. Also, I won’t tell you whom the dream concerns or is related to. Maybe I’m trying to be discreet.
Lest I forget; whenever you have a nightmare, the first thing you must do as soon as you wake up is to search your conscience. Yes, at that point, you would be expected to ask yourself some certain vital questions. By thoroughly searching your conscience, you would ascertain if your person deserves the reality of the nightmare. Then having done that, the next thing you would do is to totally submit yourself to your creator. Only you knows whom you call or regard as your ‘creator’. Having submitted yourself to your creator, the last but not the least thing you must do is to ensure that you abstain completely from anything whatsoever that has the tendency of attracting the wrath of the nightmare. Thus, you must in subsequent time, be extremely careful and as well apply deep caution. But mind you; some nightmares are hallucinations. The treatment of such anomaly is related to psychotherapy rather than religious or physical means.
Few weeks ago, a friend who used to be my colleague called me on phone from Canada where he presently resides. Amazingly, instead of asking me of Nigeria in particular, he came up with the issue of Africa in its entirety. His first question after the usual exchange of pleasantry was, ‘How is Africa?’ To be frank, initially I expected him to commence with Imo State which I know he also hails from, but on the contrary, he derailed. Though I wouldn’t say he derailed because I’m of the view that, he was deeply touched and concerned over the issue of African polity in general. Honestly, if I were in his shoes, I would do same; or would I say, I would have ‘derailed’ too.
In respect to my friend’s enquiry, firstly I hurriedly informed him that the African society as a whole was still battling with her usual ‘bloody’ nature as regards leadership tussle. I further told him that, that of the recent time has been quite alarming and more bloodier, instead of being less due to the unfriendly experiences encountered in the past. Finally, I candidly disclosed to him that, we’re the cause of our plights because we’ve failed to embrace sincerity coupled with transparency. Let’s ride on!
Frankly, I unequivocally state that from my singular view, we Africans are the sole cause of the ongoing predicament that has been predominant in our polity. If not, how can someone in his/her ‘right senses’ continue to adore self-deceit, which I had earlier tagged as one of the most psychological problems being faced by mankind? Maybe you don’t seem to comprehend the above critique that might seem harsh; so, let me make the picture more clearer.
How can a person who rightly knows that ‘A’ is the sole answer to a given question continue ticking ‘B’ from the option provided regardless of the damages such lackadaisical attitude is bringing to his/her person? Isn’t it abnormal or sort of ‘mental disorder’? In other words, our problem is strictly psychological. Take it anywhere, and I shall prove it to you in a language you would understand easily.
It’s no longer news that, my parents hail from Africa, I was born in Africa, and presently I reside in Africa, Nigeria to be precise. Therefore, at my age and status, I’m in the right position to know fully the actual origin (genesis), features, and fate of the universal polity of the African society with regard to the nature of her ongoing leadership tussle.
Africa is a continent specially created and blessed with enormous human and natural resources. Inter alia, it’s blessed with various human and agricultural friendly atmospheric conditions. Still, it remains one of the most poorest continents across the globe, which is not unconnected to the manner in which the respective countries that constitute the continent elect their leaders. Though, I sincerely thank God that, in spite of the level of the decadence, her (African) subjects seem to remain hyper-exuberant and tireless.
Brethren, at this juncture I tell you, it’s high time for holistic deliverance. Yes we have collectively sinned greatly, thus, we must all rise for this long awaited thorough penance and psychological deliverance because this is the rightful and ripe time for it. Mind you, we might not be opportune to embrace a second chance. On this note, I say, Africa arise. Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Scenic Scenarios: A Book Every Nigerian Needs
‘SCENIC SCENARIOS’: A BOOK EVERY NIGERIAN NEEDS
Brethren, I sincerely welcome you once more for another wonderful gathering of this blessed congregation, as usual. For those of us who would be coming late, you might not be privileged to receive and absorb my ever lovely welcome address. Nevertheless, whenever I say “You are all welcome”, the latecomers are inclusive.
Honestly, I had a very powerful and remarkable dream yester-night, just as it has always been. I must confess, having or embracing a good and memorable dream strengthens my level of optimism as regards my personal, communal, or national target as the case may be. Mind you, never you pursue a rat as your dream simply because you dreamt of a rat in the previous night; not unlike I’ve invariably warned you in the past. The warning might sound a bit confusing, but try to unravel the mystery yourself. It’s an unavoidable assignment to you all.
Lest I forget; penultimate week, Wednesday January 15 to be precise, I encountered an old time friend in one of the commercial banks situated in Owerri metropolis. Amidst our prolonged discussion, he hurriedly told me that after the series of expenditures during the yuletide season, hunger follows. I absorbed the notice as a joke, but he meant it. Of course it’s a fact, because I’ve often observed that virtually all, don’t eat to remain when it calls for festivities. It’s a common syndrome in our society.
But, my candid question remains; how can one ‘lousily’ forget the future because he finds himself in a joyous mood? Does it mean that, the future has nothing to do with the present, or that, the future can plan for itself? A question yet to be answered, but must be answered. Let’s ride on!
As a concerned citizen, and social analyst, a certain young man looked inwards and found out that Nigeria as a republic and as a country, was fast decaying. On this note, he decided and concluded to come out with a piece that would perpetually settle the whole plight being faced by the Nigerian society in its entirety. The piece in question is Scenic Scenarios. In a nutshell, ‘Scenic Scenarios’ as the title implies, is a book every Nigerian needs irrespective of age, background or status.
‘The Way Forward!’ which is the caption of the book, as it was written by the Author, Fred Nwaozor, duly edited by an impeccable editor Ken Uwasomba and thoroughly published by Solotech Press Limited, lays emphasis on the six major sectors that ought to be considered by the Nigerian government with the object of solving the ongoing socio-economic and political crises in the country. Each of the chapters that extensively discussed a particular sector candidly emphasized on the steps or remedial approach to be taken to ensure that the lingering predicament(s) in the sector in question is/are duly eradicated. The challenges that await the government while taking any of the steps, were foreseen and tagged by the author as ‘unavoidable’ if the noble dream of the nation as specified by ‘Vision 20:20:20’ must be wholly actualized.
Prior to the compilation of the book, the contents had earlier been published in parts by the author on the Newspaper column, Fancy Facts, handled and regularly maintained by him. The book/omnibus comprises of six major chapters that exclusively discussed Power, Health, Education, Refineries, Security, and Labour respectively. The Author, FDN Nwaozor – a prolific writer, media commentator, motivational speaker, social analyst and activist who hails from Awo-omamma in Oru-East LGA of Imo State, is a patriotic Nigerian that truly understands the plight of the nation to the fullness.
The book, which was published in the year 2013, can be obtained/purchased in most recognized Bookshops across the federation. Besides; for those of us who are research oriented, you can grab a copy of the book in the Imo State Library, and the National Library of Nigeria situated in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) – Abuja and Imo State; also, the libraries of some of the Campuses in the aforementioned state, such as Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Imo State University (IMSU) and Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (AIFCE) are not left out. It can also be found in some of the State Libraries in Lagos State. Above all, its softcopy could be read on the internet, via www.frednwaozor.blogspot.com. Mind you; do not download or print any of the pages/contents from the Net, without the consent of the Author or the Publisher. ‘To before warned is to before harmed.’
Believe me, keeping a copy of the piece (omnibus) in our respective individual libraries would convince us that, the long awaited Messiah in respect to the Nigerian socio-economic and political problems, has come in form of a book. Let’s take an apt action to salvage the future of our dear country because, it lies in our respective hands. Let’s not allow this persistent phantom override our entire creative ingenuity. Think about it!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, I sincerely welcome you once more for another wonderful gathering of this blessed congregation, as usual. For those of us who would be coming late, you might not be privileged to receive and absorb my ever lovely welcome address. Nevertheless, whenever I say “You are all welcome”, the latecomers are inclusive.
Honestly, I had a very powerful and remarkable dream yester-night, just as it has always been. I must confess, having or embracing a good and memorable dream strengthens my level of optimism as regards my personal, communal, or national target as the case may be. Mind you, never you pursue a rat as your dream simply because you dreamt of a rat in the previous night; not unlike I’ve invariably warned you in the past. The warning might sound a bit confusing, but try to unravel the mystery yourself. It’s an unavoidable assignment to you all.
Lest I forget; penultimate week, Wednesday January 15 to be precise, I encountered an old time friend in one of the commercial banks situated in Owerri metropolis. Amidst our prolonged discussion, he hurriedly told me that after the series of expenditures during the yuletide season, hunger follows. I absorbed the notice as a joke, but he meant it. Of course it’s a fact, because I’ve often observed that virtually all, don’t eat to remain when it calls for festivities. It’s a common syndrome in our society.
But, my candid question remains; how can one ‘lousily’ forget the future because he finds himself in a joyous mood? Does it mean that, the future has nothing to do with the present, or that, the future can plan for itself? A question yet to be answered, but must be answered. Let’s ride on!
As a concerned citizen, and social analyst, a certain young man looked inwards and found out that Nigeria as a republic and as a country, was fast decaying. On this note, he decided and concluded to come out with a piece that would perpetually settle the whole plight being faced by the Nigerian society in its entirety. The piece in question is Scenic Scenarios. In a nutshell, ‘Scenic Scenarios’ as the title implies, is a book every Nigerian needs irrespective of age, background or status.
‘The Way Forward!’ which is the caption of the book, as it was written by the Author, Fred Nwaozor, duly edited by an impeccable editor Ken Uwasomba and thoroughly published by Solotech Press Limited, lays emphasis on the six major sectors that ought to be considered by the Nigerian government with the object of solving the ongoing socio-economic and political crises in the country. Each of the chapters that extensively discussed a particular sector candidly emphasized on the steps or remedial approach to be taken to ensure that the lingering predicament(s) in the sector in question is/are duly eradicated. The challenges that await the government while taking any of the steps, were foreseen and tagged by the author as ‘unavoidable’ if the noble dream of the nation as specified by ‘Vision 20:20:20’ must be wholly actualized.
Prior to the compilation of the book, the contents had earlier been published in parts by the author on the Newspaper column, Fancy Facts, handled and regularly maintained by him. The book/omnibus comprises of six major chapters that exclusively discussed Power, Health, Education, Refineries, Security, and Labour respectively. The Author, FDN Nwaozor – a prolific writer, media commentator, motivational speaker, social analyst and activist who hails from Awo-omamma in Oru-East LGA of Imo State, is a patriotic Nigerian that truly understands the plight of the nation to the fullness.
The book, which was published in the year 2013, can be obtained/purchased in most recognized Bookshops across the federation. Besides; for those of us who are research oriented, you can grab a copy of the book in the Imo State Library, and the National Library of Nigeria situated in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) – Abuja and Imo State; also, the libraries of some of the Campuses in the aforementioned state, such as Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Imo State University (IMSU) and Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (AIFCE) are not left out. It can also be found in some of the State Libraries in Lagos State. Above all, its softcopy could be read on the internet, via www.frednwaozor.blogspot.com. Mind you; do not download or print any of the pages/contents from the Net, without the consent of the Author or the Publisher. ‘To before warned is to before harmed.’
Believe me, keeping a copy of the piece (omnibus) in our respective individual libraries would convince us that, the long awaited Messiah in respect to the Nigerian socio-economic and political problems, has come in form of a book. Let’s take an apt action to salvage the future of our dear country because, it lies in our respective hands. Let’s not allow this persistent phantom override our entire creative ingenuity. Think about it!
_____________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
New Year Resolution
ESSENCE OF NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
Brethren, never give up on something you really want; it’s difficult to wait but worse to regret. Mind you, as your urge remains persistent towards actualizing your goal (aim), courtesy demands that you take a second look of the goal in question and ascertain how worthwhile it would be to possess such thing because, a worthless thing doesn’t worth waiting for.
In the same vein, as you wait to receive your heart desire, you are also expected to reconsider the kind of life you live and see if it’s worth living, or if such life can be of help towards attaining your desired height because, most of the lives we live don’t deserve worthwhile goals.
Few weeks ago, I was privileged to be in the midst of a certain group in Port-Harcourt Rivers State that was debating the significance of being steadfast in one’s pursuit towards success. I was listening with keen interest, so along the line, the members of the group got confused and derailed as regards their sense of judgement. I candidly used the avenue to educate them on the real essence of steadfastness or persistence, and what’s expected of someone who embraces it. And at the end of the discussion, they unanimously appreciated my concern.
Persistence, according to the context of this edition, simply means the situation in which one continues to do something with determination in spite of difficulty or opposition. But we must know that, there are certain questions we’re required to ask ourselves whenever we persist to do or expect something. First and foremost, you must ask yourself how useful and relevant would that thing be to you, and what impact would it unleash on the people around you. Thus, in anything you do, you’re not meant to consider only yourself but others as well.
Secondly and most importantly, you’re meant to ensure that the life you live deserves what you’re anticipating. This might sound a bit vague, but the fact remains that, most lives we live do not deserve to behold the fruit of most of our aspirations. In other words, if you really want something good, bear it in mind that nature requires something good in return prior to the procurement of that which you expect or want. And don’t forget, no one has ever cheated nature. Therefore you can never cheat nature, rather, the reverse would become the case. Let’s ride on!
We are discussing the prime essence of New-Year resolution. To start with; abiding by the context of this very edition, a resolution in a concise term is a firm decision taken by someone to do something or not do something. Apparently, a New Year resolution is a decision taken by someone to do something or not do something at the beginning of any calendar year, within first days of January precisely.
Many people see the above phenomenon as a worthwhile scenario; on the contrary, several others despise it. But the most appalling and devastating aspect of the phenomenon is the situation whereby most persons merely take the decision without sticking to what the so called decision requires in subsequent time.
Frankly speaking, new year resolution is a worthwhile gesture required by mankind regardless of age, status, background or religious affiliation. It is a point in our respective lives at which we’re expected to make a U-turn or reconsider our lives so far, and see where that should be amended and where we’re meant to sustain. This is the reason the great philosopher, Socrates of the blessed memory said, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” And I concur with him.
Having examined our life, we are expected to take a very firm and tangible decision that would enable us sustain the worthwhile part, and amend the porous part. Therefore the decision is meant to be seen as an oath, and ought to be kept sacred. I bet you, if the decision is kept sacred, it would fortify us and enable us actualize our respective goals.
So brethren, at this juncture I urge you to sincerely embrace a genuine New Year Resolution as we embrace another long awaited year 2014, and you would see how effective and efficient the tool is or has been. Or, do you wish to wait till next century before you abide by it? The ball is right in your court. Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Brethren, never give up on something you really want; it’s difficult to wait but worse to regret. Mind you, as your urge remains persistent towards actualizing your goal (aim), courtesy demands that you take a second look of the goal in question and ascertain how worthwhile it would be to possess such thing because, a worthless thing doesn’t worth waiting for.
In the same vein, as you wait to receive your heart desire, you are also expected to reconsider the kind of life you live and see if it’s worth living, or if such life can be of help towards attaining your desired height because, most of the lives we live don’t deserve worthwhile goals.
Few weeks ago, I was privileged to be in the midst of a certain group in Port-Harcourt Rivers State that was debating the significance of being steadfast in one’s pursuit towards success. I was listening with keen interest, so along the line, the members of the group got confused and derailed as regards their sense of judgement. I candidly used the avenue to educate them on the real essence of steadfastness or persistence, and what’s expected of someone who embraces it. And at the end of the discussion, they unanimously appreciated my concern.
Persistence, according to the context of this edition, simply means the situation in which one continues to do something with determination in spite of difficulty or opposition. But we must know that, there are certain questions we’re required to ask ourselves whenever we persist to do or expect something. First and foremost, you must ask yourself how useful and relevant would that thing be to you, and what impact would it unleash on the people around you. Thus, in anything you do, you’re not meant to consider only yourself but others as well.
Secondly and most importantly, you’re meant to ensure that the life you live deserves what you’re anticipating. This might sound a bit vague, but the fact remains that, most lives we live do not deserve to behold the fruit of most of our aspirations. In other words, if you really want something good, bear it in mind that nature requires something good in return prior to the procurement of that which you expect or want. And don’t forget, no one has ever cheated nature. Therefore you can never cheat nature, rather, the reverse would become the case. Let’s ride on!
We are discussing the prime essence of New-Year resolution. To start with; abiding by the context of this very edition, a resolution in a concise term is a firm decision taken by someone to do something or not do something. Apparently, a New Year resolution is a decision taken by someone to do something or not do something at the beginning of any calendar year, within first days of January precisely.
Many people see the above phenomenon as a worthwhile scenario; on the contrary, several others despise it. But the most appalling and devastating aspect of the phenomenon is the situation whereby most persons merely take the decision without sticking to what the so called decision requires in subsequent time.
Frankly speaking, new year resolution is a worthwhile gesture required by mankind regardless of age, status, background or religious affiliation. It is a point in our respective lives at which we’re expected to make a U-turn or reconsider our lives so far, and see where that should be amended and where we’re meant to sustain. This is the reason the great philosopher, Socrates of the blessed memory said, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” And I concur with him.
Having examined our life, we are expected to take a very firm and tangible decision that would enable us sustain the worthwhile part, and amend the porous part. Therefore the decision is meant to be seen as an oath, and ought to be kept sacred. I bet you, if the decision is kept sacred, it would fortify us and enable us actualize our respective goals.
So brethren, at this juncture I urge you to sincerely embrace a genuine New Year Resolution as we embrace another long awaited year 2014, and you would see how effective and efficient the tool is or has been. Or, do you wish to wait till next century before you abide by it? The ball is right in your court. Think about it!
______________________
FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
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