So I choose ME.🇳🇬 - by Israel Oyedeji

Liberty, so we call it. Independence, we named the day. Sixty-six years on, what has independence truly meant for the average Nigerian? Opportunity, they say, comes but once. If it comes twice, we call it chance, and thrice, luck. But do I say no to an opportunity to find fulfilment because of my duty as a citizen? Does putting myself first not apply in the name of patriotism? My nationality is NIGERIA, but what happens when the cost of living far exceeds what many can reasonably afford? It is no news that infrastructure often fails to reach the grassroots. Yet, much of this development seems disconnected from the needs of people like me. An environment that continually demands more from its people while offering diminishing returns, even as the quality of essential services continues to decline. Patriotism has nothing to do with residing in one's country permanently when other options are available. Resilience should not mean romanticising hardship or suggesting that remaining is the only acceptable choice. To be a patriot is to preserve one's culture and remain intact, personally, morally and financially. Migration has become a source of hope for many seeking opportunities their homeland has been unable to provide. Green, White, Green. Oh, how I love my country, but does my country love me? Will I continue to wait on the promise that "it will get better," gambling my future on mere words? Which is worse, brain drain or unemployment? Nigeria continues to face significant infrastructure challenges. Though we have witnessed development in tech startups and mobile banking, among other fields, significant gaps remain in the educational and medical systems. It is reasonable to seek alternative pathways to success rather than wait for something uncertain, as unemployment and the pursuit of a better standard of living are major drivers of migration. Yes, we can feel the shortages brain drain has caused in professional sectors, but should we remain committed to a system that continually fails to recognize our contributions? Gen Z is not obliged to fix a system that the old guardians are too rigid to let go of. Our own independence is to choose ourselves, our futures and the opportunities we believe will help us flourish. So I choose me. Happy Independence Day still.<img src="/media/inline_insight_image/CEF49505-C31A-4765-9938-EA42A7194424.jpeg"/>

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