2nd April, 2011
As individuals dedicated to the progress and development of our dear country, I am sure all Nigerians can attest to what I am about to say: We have seen the handiwork of Good luck Jonathan in Nigeria .
There is peace in the Niger Delta (applause!)
Our power sector is nearing stabilization (applause!)
Policy has passed to revitalize local participation in the oil and gas sector, with the possibility of creating numerous jobs and opportunities for our people (applause!)
Despite the setbacks the global community faced as a result of the economic crisis, Nigeria has posted over 7% growths in GDP. (Applause!)
Ladies and Gentlemen, like any other nation, Nigeria‟s challenges are many. But I believe, and I hope you can agree, its potentials are greater. At this point in time, as we entered our 50th year, we require a leader who will steer clear of “politics as usual.†A leader who will break free from the ideas of the past that have held us back to where socio-economic development is not a mere wish, but a reality. Where our economy is diversified and is a beacon of light for our people. A place where our children no longer have to study with candlelight!
Fellow sons and daughters, it would be remiss of us to expect His Excellency to address every challenge by himself. Every great leader, from Abraham Lincoln to Martin Luther King to Barak Obama had able bodied followers. People who believed in the vision, not just with their mouths, but with their efforts. Today, I implore all of you to be President Jonathan’s able bodied followers, carrying his vision and joining in the effort to transform Nigeria for the better.
In his declaration of candidacy, one of the statements Mr. President made that touched my heart was: “I want you all to know that I am one of you and I will never let you down.”
I am one of you and I will never let you down. When your leader recognizes that he is not above you, but here to serve you, you know you have a person of substance in front. One who will be led by his passion for this country, not by desire to steal and ignore.
You said no one should embark on rigging for you. You told us the need to be transparent and fair. You said that no blood should be shed for your cause. We heard you! We are glad that you care about us. We are LUCKY to have you as our president and will do our best to get you re-elected. You must remember that we are your children. Please remember your promise to make us relevant. Sometimes we feel like lost lambs. We are excited with your desire to find us just like the shepherd in the bible. We are ready to help our own Country. To bring the experience and education home to the country we so love.
YOUTH:
Amongst numerous issues at hand is that of our future leaders. Our hope for a better future! We must build the house on solid rock else, we are doomed. Youth re-orientation is needed badly in Nigeria . We will help our youth in understanding that the future belongs to them. We are ready to encourage them to select their own president like we did OBAMA. The youth must be involved in the system and be encouraged to be part of the solution. With this, our youth will see themselves as part of the government and refrain from being used as thugs by anyone. It is time to give our youth a voice in the government. They are our future.
WOMEN:
I heard and read many notes on our first lady regarding WOMEN EMPOWERMENT. Nigeria is ready to give our women the chance to compete with our men. The men are excited to see women in power. Our problem though is re-orienting our women to believe in themselves. Women are brilliant and vocal. We must encourage those with ambition but financially challenged to come out and represent this great nation. Mother Jubril situation at the PDP primary should open our eyes that EVEN WOMEN DO NOT BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES. This is a serious problem! We are ready to help HER Excellency Patience Good luck in re-orienting our women to go for the gold. Under your government, the sky is the limit for Nigerian Women. These are the reasons we will work our might to get you there. Good luck to Nigerian Women!
Today, let us make a similar promise. Mr. President – we promise to support you as you seek a fair and freely elected seat in office. As you have promised to act with the favor of the people of Nigeria in mind, we promise to work hard for you. To assist you in carrying out your vision; Today, we promise to act as one. To use our talents, gifts and prayers to help you as you serve Nigeria . We look forward to your future success sir. Long live President Jonathan. God Bless Nigeria .
By Sunday Ben Bamidele , USA