OCTOBER 1 MESSAGE: THE FUTURE IS NOT A LOTTERY - IT'S A HARVEST

By, Amb. Akanbi Ilyas Shola 

My fellow Nigerians,

As we celebrate 65 years of independence, let's reflect on the true meaning of freedom and our responsibilities.  The future is not a lottery; it's a harvest we must plant and water together. 

The future is not a lottery we wait to win, but a harvest we must plant and water together. This truth is not just a phrase for you and me; it is a conviction. It belongs to those who sow in faith, water with discipline, and reap with courage. What we experience tomorrow is the fruit of the seeds we plant today.

History shows us that progress never happens by accident; it is cultivatedbypeople. Nations thrive when their citizens embrace hard truths, take responsibility, and summon the moral courage to act rightly, even when it is difficult for us. 

This month, I urge us to reflect on four commitments that can turn our independence into true freedom:

First, we must seek, Wisdom because it is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom with understanding of it.  When we confront the root causes of our challenges rather than scratch the surface, we open the door to seek lasting solutions with understanding. 

Second, we must take responsibility. Blame may feel convenient, but it changes nothing in itself. Responsibility, on the other hand, activates us as valiant citizens. Each of us has a role to play in shaping Nigeria's destiny — in our families, our communities, and our daily lives politics. 

Third, we must live with moral courage. Leadership, whether in government, business, or community, must be anchored in principle. When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." The quality of our future will be determined by the integrity of those we allow to lead — and by the courage of ordinary citizens to demand better.

Ultimately, we must strive for continuous improvement. A Change for the Better

 life — one of daily growth, learning, and adaptation — is the only way to build resilience in an ever-changing world. If we as individuals improve, our institutions will improve, and so will our nation.

As we enter this new month, let us not leave our future to chance. Let us plant the seeds of honesty, discipline, and service. Let us water them with faith, unity, and perseverance. And let us trust that, in God's time, Nigeria will reap a harvest of justice, peace, and prosperity.

 Happy Independence Day, and Happy New Month.

       Be a change for the Better, Be Valiant. Be Faithful.