By David Bolarinwa,The Nation

Copyright thenationonlineng

At a gathering organised by Borngreat Nations, speakers called on Nigerians to change the negative narrative about the country and embrace a renewed mindset to unlock its vast potential and restore its former glory.

Convener of the event, Paul B. Orizu, expressed his deep love for Nigeria and a desire to shift the prevailing negative discourse surrounding the nation.

“Nigeria is the only country we have at this moment, and we should try our best possible to make it better instead of destroying the nation,” Orizu said.

He highlighted Nigeria’s historical achievements, including the Benin Moat—described as the largest man-made structure on earth built without technology—as evidence of the country’s past greatness.

He further warned against the negative emotions affecting Nigerians’ collective psyche, noting that “the way we talk, the way we speak, we are so much negative and compassionate about this nation, and it is affecting the emotional psyche of the citizens.”

He urged Nigerians to redefine and refine their national identity, stating, “It is only what is defined that can be refined.”

Activist, Dr. Charles Apoki spoke about the power of perception and identity, describing Nigeria’s reputation as a “dog that is neutral until you give it a name, and it will start answering that name.”

He argued that a deliberate effort has been made to tarnish Nigeria’s image globally, but Nigerians must reject such labels.

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper,” he quoted, encouraging a strong, positive self-image.

Apoki pointed to the global achievements of Nigerians, including successes in sports, academia, and business, to illustrate the country’s vast potential. He asserted that changing the internal narrative would eventually lead to global recognition and respect.

“The narrative will change our actions,” he said.

He recalled Nigeria’s past economic strength, highlighting times when the country loaned money to the International Monetary Fund and to South Korea, now a global technology leader.

Dr. Hamzat Abiodun emphasised the necessity of a renewed mindset as a foundation for national transformation. “Narrative without a renewed mind cannot yield any result,” he said, stressing that many Nigerians continue to vote based on tribal, religious, or personal interests rather than national progress.

He added, “The change must start from within,” and only with a positive mindset can Nigerians expect better leadership and a better country.

Dr. Afoke Orivry on her part, highlighted the media’s crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s identity and called on journalists to tell authentic, balanced stories that reflect both the nation’s challenges and its successes. She assured that the conversation sparked at the event would continue, with plans to engage government officials and the public through various platforms.

When asked about communicating the event’s outcomes to the government, Orivry said, “The media are here. You are going to write reports and then there is going to be a continuation of the conversation. It’s not going to stop.” She emphasised the importance of ongoing dialogue to ensure the message reaches policymakers.

The speakers collectively stressed the need for Nigerians to embrace a citizen movement that transcends political and tribal divisions. Engr. Orizu urged Nigerians to “light your little candle where there is darkness,” underscoring that political leaders represent only a small fraction of the nation’s capacity for change.

“We should start in a Greek philosophy of politics. You have idiots, tribalists, and citizens. Citizens are those who take the interest of the nation first,” he explained.

The event further emphasised Nigeria’s abundant human capital and the importance of resetting the national mindset.

Orizu said, “Nigeria is Zion, and I will behave like a citizen,” affirming his belief that the country can overcome its challenges by embracing unity, pride, and a positive narrative.