Former Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola has criticized the popular phrase “May Nigeria not happen to me,” urging Nigerians to focus on the country’s positive aspects and avoid negative criticism.
Speaking on Channels Television’s “Empowering Tomorrow: A New Vision for Nigeria,” Fashola said that Nigerians should not prioritize their need to focus on Nigeria’s flaws rather than its assets.
“This is the time that all of us must put our hands on the plough,” he said. “For those who want to denigrate the country, you must first ask them, ‘Do they have another country?’ I don’t have another one.”
Fashola also advised the present administration not to fear criticism, but to use it as a necessary step in improving the country.
“In the name of criticism, there must be no negative word about this country, even if it has negatives,” he said. “I remember a conference I attended, and the theme around which we discussed was that ‘can we all agree never to put forward Nigeria’s negative?’ and I have held to that commitment I made solemnly as much as I can.”
Fashola’s comments come as Nigeria celebrates its 63rd independence anniversary. The country has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including insecurity, economic hardship, and corruption. However, Fashola argued that Nigerians should focus on the country’s positive aspects, such as its diversity, culture, and resilience.
“Hope is the most important currency that sustains human civilization,” he said. “This is the time for us to start emphasizing on the minor things more and using them to inspire hope.”
He can say so because he was opportunity to join the trains of looters and political criminality