Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.

‘Reflecting On The Past, Inspiring The Future’: – The Trailblazers’ Stories

By David Oletu (DCM)

This article profiles the remarkable journeys of three Nigerian trailblazers who transformed their lives from ordinary to extraordinary,

inspiring resilience, motivation and hope in the Nigerian spirit to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.

Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.

October 1st marks a significant day for Nigerians to celebrate their Independence Day!

The theme for this year’s independence is ‘Reflecting On The Past, Inspiring The Future’.

While it is good to reflect on the past, I think reflecting on the present inspires the future better.

Reflecting on the past only gives that avenue to think of how our heroes’ past has built Nigeria,

and considering the state of the nation, it may end up being an emotional scenario where sadness glooms.

We need to reflect on the good path we are presently on to bring that motivation in us to look forward to the best future we anticipate each day!

Now, the big question is:

What is that thing that gives Nigeria hope for a better future presently? Nigeria – Wikipedia

From 1960 till date, what can we really boast of to keep our minds rest assured that there is hope for a brighter future?

The world evolves constantly and what is peculiar to the past may not be applicable to the present/future.

How is Nigeria evolving in line?

Or do we continue to speak of our past glory of how we gained our independence?

The Nigerian’s Spirit

Nigeria is a nation that is greatly admired by many nations across the world.

Despite Nigeria’s huge population and challenges, Nigerians are found making waves globally!

Nigerians are known for their resilient spirit to thrive even in hard times.

They are also known for their collaborative spirit to support and encourage each other.

However, today, the average Nigerian may not see anything worth celebrating about Nigeria, due to the hardship that looms in the air.

But I tell you, as a Nigerian, you have yourself to celebrate for coming this far in Nigeria and remaining true to yourself, refusing to sacrifice your integrity and values.   

Every nation experiences hardship, and while hardship is not a thing to boast of,

I think the Nigeria spirit to excel through it all and against all odds,

with a key message that the Nigeria Dream is possible to attain by anyone,

regardless of background, is worth celebrating on Nigeria’s Independence Day.

That is our hope and inspiration for a brighter future.

Therefore, in celebrating and reflecting on the Nigerian’s Spirit on this day, to inspire hope for the future,

this article profiles the remarkable journeys of three Nigerian trailblazers who transformed their lives from ordinary to extraordinary,

inspiring resilience, motivation and hope in the Nigerian spirit to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.

Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.

The Trailblazers’ Stories

Dr. Olawale Sulaiman—The Trailblazing Neurosurgeon

Dr. Olawale Sulaiman, a professor of neurosurgery and spinal surgery, has dedicated his life to improving healthcare in Nigeria, his country of birth.

Splitting his time between the US and Nigeria, Sulaiman provides healthcare services, often pro bono,

as Chairman of the Neurosurgery Department and Back and Spine Center at Ochsner Neuroscience Institute in New Orleans.

Sulaiman’s motivation stems from his humble beginnings.

“I am one of 10 children born into a polygamous family.

My siblings and I shared one room where we often found ourselves sleeping on a mat on the floor,” he shared with CNN.

A scholarship to study medicine in Bulgaria through the Nigerian government’s Bureau for External Aid program launched his journey.

In 2010, Sulaiman established RNZ Global, a healthcare development company, with his wife Patricia.

The company provides medical services, including neuro and spinal surgery, and health courses in Nigeria and the US.

He also founded the RNZ Foundation, a non-profit organization offering free services and surgery to the less privileged.

RNZ Global has treated over 500 patients and provided preventative medicine to up to 5,000 people in the US and Nigeria.

Patients like Philomena Arah describe Sulaiman’s work as “life-changing,”

as Sulaiman hopes to establish at least four neuroscience centres in Nigeria.

Dr. Sulaiman’s leadership and expertise have been recognized through various appointments:

– System Chairman of Neurosurgery and Co-Medical Director at Ochsner Neuroscience Institute (until January 2019)

– Medical Director, International Medicine, African Region, Ochsner Health System

– Professor of Neurosurgery at Tulane University

– Visiting Professor at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State

– Adjunct Professor at the University of Abuja

– On May 17, 2023, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University of Health Science, Ila-Orangun, Osun State.

– In August 2019, he was named Special Adviser on Health Matters by the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

This role led to a successful initiative that provided 500 free surgeries at General Hospital Ilorin, valued at 26.9 million Nigerian naira (approximately USD 98,638).

Sulaiman says to CNN,

“I believe that happiness doesn’t come from what you get, rather, it comes from what you give… There is always room to give; you don’t need to be a millionaire to give.”

His ideology is well put into action today, as he derives joy from giving back to his home country Nigeria.

Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.

Helen Paul: The Trailblazing Comedienne and Academia

Helen Paul, a renowned Nigerian comedienne, media personality, academic, and entrepreneur, has defied the odds to achieve greatness.

Born in Lagos and raised in Iju-Ishaga and Fadeyi,

Helen developed a love for education and knowledge, driving her to pursue multiple academic qualifications.

Despite facing financial struggles and admission setbacks, Helen persevered, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Arts from the University of Lagos,

followed by Master’s degrees in Theatre Arts, Business Administration, and Public Administration from the University of Lagos and Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).

She later obtained a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos, becoming the first comedian to achieve this feat.

In an interview with This Day Publication, Helen shared her inspiring story, revealing the driving forces behind her success.

“The truth is that I love knowledge, and would stop at nothing to get it. I belong to the school of thought that believes we stop acquiring knowledge only when we die.”

This mindset has propelled her to excel in various fields.

However, Helen’s journey was not without its challenges.

She openly spoke about her struggles, including being born out of rape, and how her mother’s strength and resilience inspired her.

“My Mum deserves it because she is really a strong woman.

I had been waiting for the right time to talk about it publicly, and there can’t be a better time,”

she said, dedicating her PhD to her mother.

Additionally, Helen faced financial struggles after gaining admission to the University of Ilorin.

Her mother couldn’t afford the admission fees, and registration had closed by the time she arrived.

Undeterred, Helen stayed on campus, attending classes and writing attendance,

until a junior lecturer, Dr. Felix, took her under his wing, providing accommodation and guidance.

As a successful comedienne, actress, presenter, columnist, and entrepreneur, Helen has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry.

Her academic achievements and career success have inspired countless individuals, particularly young Nigerians pursuing education and careers in the arts.

Helen’s advice to others is rooted in her experiences.

“Never give up on your dreams.

Try as much as possible to constantly be innovative.

You must surround yourself with people who can cue into your dreams.”

She emphasized the importance of originality, self-belief, and faith in overcoming adversity.

When asked about her definition of richness, Helen responded,

“Your account balance or posh cars and mansions do not determine how rich you are.

How many lives have you touched positively with the little God has given you? That’s my definition of riches.”

Looking ahead, Helen shared her plans:

“I will unfold the plans as God directs. As for the plan to be a lecturer or visiting professor, I will say it is likely to happen.

I love to impact knowledge on younger people, so it wouldn’t be a bad idea at all.”

Today, Helen serves as Professor and Head of Department (HOD) of Arts, Music, and Entertainment at Heart International University in the United States,

fulfilling her aspiration to impact knowledge on younger generations.

Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.

Victor Osimhen: The Trailblazing Footballer.

Moving into the world of sports, Victor Osimhen is another Nigerian making Nigeria proud globally against all odds he faced, while growing up. 

Born into poverty, Osimhen grew up in the Olusosun area in Oregun/Ojota of Lagos State, where his family struggled to make ends meet.

The harsh environment and dire circumstances could have easily derailed his dreams,

but Osimhen’s unwavering passion for football kept him focused.

Growing up, Osimhen’s family faced numerous challenges.

After losing his mother and the job loss of his father, he was forced to sell sachet water on the streets to survive.

The meagre earnings helped put food on the table, but Osimhen’s heart remained fixed on football.

He would often play on the streets, honing his skills and dreaming of a better life. Despite these hardships, Osimhen’s determination never wavered.

Osimhen’s big break came when he joined Ultimate Strikers Academy, a local football club that provided him with the platform to showcase his talents.

His impressive performances caught the attention of Emmanuel Amuneke, Nigeria’s U-17 coach, who invited him to trial for the national team.

Osimhen’s raw talent and dedication earned him a spot in the 2015 U-17 World Cup,

where he led the Golden Eaglets to victory, scoring 10 goals and winning the Golden Boot and Silver Ball awards.

The 2015 U-17 World Cup triumph marked a turning point in Osimhen’s career.

European clubs took notice of the young Nigerian sensation, and he eventually signed with Wolfsburg in 2017.

However, his German sojourn was marred by injuries and surgeries, which hindered his progress.

A malaria diagnosis further complicated his recovery, testing his resolve and resilience.

Despite these setbacks, Osimhen refused to give up.

Revitalized by a successful loan stint at Sporting Charleroi, he went on to excel at Lille and eventually joined Napoli in 2020.

The Italian giants paid €70 million for his services, making him the most expensive African transfer at the time.

At Napoli and subsequently, Galatasaray, Osimhen has become a star player.

He won the Scudetto in 2023 with Napoli, breaking records.

His winning goal against Udinese secured Napoli’s first title in 33 years, cementing his place in football history. 

As Osimhen continues to soar to new heights, his rags-to-riches story remains an enduring reminder of the resilient spirits of ordinary Nigerians worth celebrating.

The boy who once sold sachet water on the streets of Lagos has become an international icon, inspiring millions with his remarkable journey.

Presently, he plays for Galatasaray S.K. (#45 / Forward) and the Nigeria Super Eagles football team, proudly representing his nation on the global stage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the country’s resilience and potential.

The inspiring stories of Dr. Olawale Sulaiman, Helen Paul, and Victor Osimhen demonstrate that Nigeria’s greatest strength lies in its people.

Their achievements show that with determination, hard work, and collective support, Nigerians can overcome challenges and make a lasting impact globally.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us shift our focus from merely reflecting on the past to embracing the present and shaping the future.

By investing in people and the next generation, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and produce more trailblazers who embody the Nigerian spirit.

Together, we can build a Nigeria that is proud of its past, hopeful about its present, and confident in its future.

Happy Nigeria 64th Independence Anniversary!

Also Read: Nigeria Celebrates Democracy Day! – Diademng (thediademng.org)

Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the Nigerian’s Spirit.