Fathers play a foundational role in nation-building by shaping the moral fabric of society, instilling civic responsibility, and providing the economic and emotional stability that anchors communities. As primary mentors, they pass down core values like integrity, empathy, and justice, which serve as the collective conscience of a nation.
In addition, fathers and mentors serve as the conscience of the nation, shaping future generations. Through daily discipline, selfless sacrifice, and moral guidance, they build the resilient foundation upon which strong families and thriving communities depend.
Furthermore, In a recent exploration and, while writing on the subject of “Writer: Conscience of The Nation and An Oracle,” we examined the shifting dynamics and profound reflection of the transformative power of the literary pen. It establishes writers as the souls prophetic voice of society, echoing the timeless legacy of literary giants like Chinua Achebe.
Let me continue with an extract from one of my recent essays published by Sahara reporters on February 19, 2022. “A WRITER: CONSCIENCE OF THE NATION AND AN ORACLE By Richard Odusanya”:
Things have really gone so bad, and our beloved country Nigeria is falling apart “Things fall apart.” The entire system and its once cherished institutions are all crumbling right before our “koro-koro” eyes like they say in the local parlance.
Writers are the soul of a nation. Chinụa Achebe wrote ‘There Was A Country’ out of frustration. He even said he knew the book will give his readers headache. I may not agree with all that he said in the book, but the title of the book is prescient and can never be ignored.
PILLARS OF NATIONAL CONSCIENCE
As we are celebrated globally today with profound respect, I challenge us, as Noble Fathers, to be conscious of our roles in Nation-building. Because being the conscience of a nation and an incurable optimist in the Nigerian project means confronting our deepest, most systemic challenges head-on while holding onto the stubborn, unwavering belief that a prosperous, united, and equitable Nigeria is entirely possible.
Ultimately, embracing this journey requires holding ourselves to the highest standards while maintaining an unstoppable hope for a renewed Nigeria.
CONSCIENCE OF THE NATION
Speaking Truth to Power as the conscience of the nation, we are called to bear witness to the realities on the ground—pointing out systemic failures, corruption, and social injustice without flinching.
THE CALLING:
It requires us to be the moral compass that reminds the country of its founding ideals and the sanctity of every Nigerian life.
THE OBJECTIVE:
We do not criticize to tear down, but rather to jolt the nation’s collective consciousness. You hold leadership accountable, demand transparency, and refuse to allow the normalization of mediocrity or impunity.
THE FOUNDATION:
 Your hope is not rooted in blind denial of economic hardships or political dysfunction. Instead, it is anchored in the undeniable resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, brilliance, and tenacity of the Nigerian people.
THE VISION:
You see the “light at the end of the tunnel”, championing the idea that our brightest days are ahead of us. You believe that a renewed, functional society can be built through active citizen participation and purposeful, accountable governance.
In conclusion, Nigeria in crisis surely needs prudent leadership: our beloved country desperately requires a convergence of competent, compassionate, and financially prudent leadership to address severe challenges, including surging fuel prices, food inflation, insecurity, and human capital flight. Meaningful reform hinges on leaders who prioritize accountability and systemic functionality over personal gain.
Finally, my reflection in Yoruba proverbs: L‟owel‟owe la nlu ilu agidigbo, ologbon ni i jo omoran ni i mo. It is proverb by proverb that „agidigbo‟ drum is beaten, only the wise can dance to it and only the knowledgeable can understand it.
CITIZEN RICHARD ODUSANYA
