Something perplexes me deeply. The saying goes that youths are tomorrow's leaders. Yet, why are young people absent from leadership positions in Nigeria and Africa as a whole? We have older men dictating our lives and destinies.
I've found a scripture in Galatians 4:1 that sheds light on this dysfunction. (You can choose to specify the Bible version later).
Here's my interpretation: As long as Nigerian and African youths remain immature, their minds undeveloped, they are no different from slaves, despite potential ownership of everything.
**The Paradox of Youth**
Nigerian youths, though destined to be leaders, are currently being led themselves. Many between 18 and 25 are consumed by youthful exuberance, engaging in fleeting relationships and unnecessary lifestyles to prove a point.
Between 25 and 35, a shift occurs. Youths start to grapple with life's meaning and purpose. Many marry by 35, and towards this age, many achieve a sense of self-realization.
**The Missing Piece: Early Education**
This is when most politicians, typically over 40, emerge. They enter politics at 40-50, having gained experience and a grasp of life's purpose.
So, how do we bridge this gap? We need to educate youths – Nigerians and Africans alike – from a young age about life's true essence. It's not about flashy cars or lifestyles, although those may come along the way.
The priority shouldn't be materialistic pursuits. The Bible instructs us to "seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:33).
Prioritize what's truly important, what's crucial, and everything else will follow.
Unless African youths are thought to take life very serious at tender age, we will keep 'pursuing the wind'.