By: ‘dayo Adedayo
The Yoruba have a saying: “Iṣẹ́ kì í ṣe owó”, work is not always about money.
As I gazed upon a collection of timeless black-and-white photographs, captured long ago with one of the most rugged and revered 35mm cameras of its era, a quiet voice within me whispered, “dayo, you have truly tried.”
These images speak not just of a moment, but of a spirit, the enduring resilience and uncelebrated labour of countless Nigerians. From the factory floors to the farmlands, from market stalls to the midnight oil burned in quiet offices, there are millions across this land who toil silently, driven not by applause but by purpose.
They are the silent architects of our nation’s progress. They are our unsung heroes.
Someday soon, I believe, these everyday champions, who give of themselves so selflessly, will be seen, honoured, and celebrated with national recognition. They deserve more than our gratitude; they deserve our spotlight.
We have no other country but Nigeria. It is time we reframe the narrative. Let the media shift its gaze from the echo chambers of politics to the heartbeat of our people. Let us begin to tell the stories of ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things, not for fame, not for wealth, but because it is right.
Let these stories inspire our youth. Let them know they do not need to walk dark paths to be seen. They, too, can be celebrated through integrity, creativity, and quiet acts of excellence.
This is the Nigeria I dream of. This is the Nigeria that can be.
May Nigeria rise.
May Nigeria thrive.
And may Nigeria succeed.