We hardly value what we have. Victor Uwaifo a multi-instrumentalist, with a preference for the rhythm guitar and an accomplished musician has bagged the award: ‘UNESCO’s Living Human Treasure’. Uwaifo and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti helped unite Nigerians across ethnic and political divides. Late Taiwo Olaniyi, Twin Seven Seven was a UNESCO Artiste for Peace. I.K. Dairo was recognized by the Queen of England as Member of the British Empire. Our own dear Patti Boulaye is also a Member of the British Empire. Nigerian artistes, Muraina Oyelami and Jimoh Buraimoh, artistes of international repute who were trained by famed Ulli and Georgina Beier are also living treasures. We have told them that they will not be permitted to answer the call of God in the fullness of time until they impart their knowledge to the younger generation in the visual arts sub-sector. TIME FOR ACTION We are in an era of diversification of the economy and a period when all bureaucratic bottlenecks should be dismantled, if Nigeria is to attain the envisaged height. It is a period for re-dedication and commitment to those ideals that could hasten development, such as implementing policies for the equitable re-distribution of wealth through the creation of jobs and opportunities. It is also time to evolve and articulate policies that could empower the general populace to participate in national development. We all know that economic development ranks next to peace and security. We have the basic vast and seeming limitless endowments – human, physical and natural – to attain greatness. OUR RESOURCES: Each time I read about the ”wonders” performed by Nigerian professionals abroad and how they are making us proud by excelling in their careers, I feel very elated; but also sad. Proud, because Nigeria is blessed with some of the best brains in the world and the global communities know this attribute; but sad, because these great Nigerians are developing the economies of other nations at the expense of our dear country. We must all share the blame for finding ourselves in this state. As pointed out by erudite scholar, Prof. Akin Mabogunje, some of the contributory factors include failure to engage in long range visioning and planning, and our love for what he called: ‘’awuff’’ or freebies. Lately, I added, as one of the causative factors, lack of respect for individual and collective conscience; described as our inner policeman. Therefore, that we have found ourselves in this mess…
