As I sit down to write about my reflections on the recent presidential polls in Senegal, I feel a sense of optimism. The winds of change have blown fiercely, propelling 44-year-old opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye to the presidency. When I think about this historic moment, I can’t help but draw parallels to the political landscape of Nigeria.
What happened in Senegal will be replicated in Nigeria in 2027. Just as the youth spoke with one voice, Nigerian youth are being mobilized to speak with one voice,
resonates with the statement from the National Youth Alliance (NYA), signed by Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, SA Media and Publicity to the NYA President, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.
The resounding voice of the youth in Senegal gives us Nigerians hope. It shows the strength we have when we unite with a common goal. In just two weeks, Faye went from being unknown to reaching the highest levels of power, demonstrating the youth’s ability to transform the political scene.
“This resonates with the power of the youth, who were provoked by unemployment and poor economic conditions. This same situation is what Nigerian youth are facing and we will work hard to change the story,” echoes Ambassador Abbas, encapsulating the fervor that ignites our aspirations for a better tomorrow.
The similarities between Senegal and Nigeria are clear. Both countries face the challenge of high unemployment rates and economic stagnation, which particularly affect young people. However, even in the face of adversity, we can find strength, solidarity, and most importantly, hope.
As we set our sights on the 2027 general elections, we must harness this momentum. We must mobilize our youth, galvanizing them into a formidable force for change. It’s not merely about winning an election; it’s about charting a course towards a brighter future for generations to come.
I, Ambassador Abbas, calls to remain patriotic and focused couldn’t be more relevant. We are on the verge of creating history, and we have the opportunity to lead our nation toward a prosperous future. However, this journey requires determination, perseverance, and, most importantly, unity.
“In the world of politics, change does not come easily. It requires us to go through hardships, put in a lot of effort, and make sacrifices. As we start on this journey, let us never forget the wise words of Nelson Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done’.”
So, let us march forward with unwavering resolve, knowing that the future of our nation lies in our hands. Let us dare to dream, to aspire, and to achieve greatness. And together, as one voice, let us carve out a destiny worthy of the dreams we hold dear.
In closing, I’m reminded of the words of Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” As we stand at the precipice of change, let us grasp the mantle of destiny and bend that arc toward a future brimming with promise and possibility.
In the heart of every Nigerian lies an ardent longing for a brighter future. By joining forces and working towards a common goal, we will triumph over all obstacles. Therefore, let us move forward with optimism and determination, towards a Nigeria that we can truly call our own.