The Power of Greetings and the Culture of Celebration
The phrase “Happy New Year!” carries a sense of joy and optimism that resonates globally. On New Year’s Day, it is often shared with enthusiasm, whether in the local language or another, and usually met with gratitude, smiles, and sometimes even hugs. It’s a celebration of survival and hope, a reminder that we have made it through another year and look forward to the next.
This greeting can be infectious. For instance, my younger son caught on to it at a young age, becoming so enamored with it that he continued to greet strangers throughout the year. People loved him for it, but imagine if a 40-year-old man were doing the same. He might not be as welcomed, highlighting how context and age influence social norms.
As mobile phone usage has grown, a new variation of this tradition has emerged: “Happy New Month.” This trend is particularly noticeable among some Nigerians, who feel the need to celebrate every 30 days. While it may seem like a positive gesture, it’s essential to approach such practices with caution. Not everyone appreciates these monthly greetings, even if they are too polite to say so.
To gauge whether your “Happy New Month” kindness is genuinely appreciated, you could take a break for a month or two and observe who initiates the greeting when you stop sending it. Those who reach out again are likely to appreciate your efforts, while those who don’t might be relieved to have escaped the routine.
A Tribute to Wole Soyinka
The renaming of the National Theatre in Lagos in honor of literary icon Wole Soyinka is a significant event. President Bola Tinubu highlighted Soyinka’s contributions, calling him a “dear uncle and leader” and praising his talents. Despite initial reservations, Soyinka accepted the tribute, marking a moment where society acknowledges one of its heroes.
However, some view this as more than just a tribute to Soyinka; it could be seen as a way for Tinubu to claim ownership of one of Nigeria’s most iconic voices. While Soyinka has long been a voice of truth, this move raises questions about his true intentions and the dynamics of power.
Cultural Disputes and Political Dynamics
Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the “Iyaloja General” of Nigeria, recently visited the Oba of Benin, attempting to inaugurate herself as the Iyaloja-General of all Edo markets. The Oba dismissed her, emphasizing the cultural significance of the Iyeki role in Benin culture. The incident highlights the complexities of political and cultural interactions, especially when figures from the first family engage with traditional leaders.
The media did not report on the scale of her convoy or her behavior during the visit, raising questions about the transparency of such events. Whether she arrived by commercial flight or private jet remains unclear, adding to the intrigue surrounding her actions.
A Nation in Transition
October 1st is celebrated as Independence Day in Nigeria, but the country faces challenges that have led to a lack of national pride. After six and a half decades, many Nigerians feel disillusioned, seeing a nation stuck in place while others progress. Leaders often prioritize their interests over the nation’s, leading to a culture of hypocrisy and neglect.
President Tinubu acknowledged this during his pre-emptive cancellation of the Independence Day parade, claiming it allowed him to enjoy a good sleep and breakfast. This moment reflects a broader issue of self-interest and detachment from the nation’s needs.
In conclusion, the story of Nigeria is one of potential and disappointment, marked by a lack of heroism and an abundance of self-serving actions. As the nation continues to navigate its path, the question remains: will it rise to meet its potential, or remain trapped in a cycle of complacency?
