Dear Fellow Paradigm Shifters,

As we prepare to enter a fresh page of our nascent democracy in 2011, it is our onus to cast our votes wisely–to the right candidates and work on all cylinders to ensure credible polls. The hanker for true democratic experience and good governance in Nigeria is a true wake-up call, sounding an alarm about the need to jettison old patterns of political and democratic processes and make a transition to a new era of ideal politics and true democracy–devoid of lobbying, rigging, gerrymandering, looting of ballot boxes, dearth of electoral logistics, shenanigans and other forms of political skullduggery. In addition, we have to raise standards against vices such as: bloodshed, abduction, sabotage, thuggery, among others.

“Change, yes we can!” has become the slogan of not only a successful campaign but also a message of hope at a time of national and global crisis. Of course, change for the sake of change is not enough. The goal and direction of that change is far more important. Youths must bring their wisdom to bear on the great problems facing Nigeria. There is a place for us in the lineup that is happening right now.

Youth participation in issues of national and international concern means: “recognizing and nurturing the strengths, interests, and abilities of young people through the provision of real opportunities for youth to become involved in decisions that affect them at individual and systemic levels.

You may think because you are just one person, there is nothing you can possibly do that will make a difference. You may think you are too insignificant to matter. You may think you do not have enough time or money to do something worthwhile. You may think that there are powerful forces out there that control everything, and that you are too small to make an impact–you are probably right. But–when you become part of a movement, things change and anything is possible.

Young people are not only the leaders for tomorrow–they are important to be taken seriously today. I am glad that the National Youth Network on Nigeria Elections (NYNNE) has given us a platform to contribute our quota in the promotion and advancement of democracy in Nigeria. Big or small–our contributions to this end can make the difference and help create positive change. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead.

With team work, we can turn off the tide of indifference and inaction in our polity. The changes that are happening in our country and globally, call for a large number of people to get involved and help create a new vision and put us on a new path toward positive change. That means getting active and bringing lots of other people into the process.

We should figure out that the very fact of community and cooperation is a sine qua non for a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable future. With synergy, we can carry out meaningful projects which will result to positive and enduring changes that improve lives and communities around the nation.

“Sustainable development" connotes the processes by which people satisfy their needs and improve their quality of life in the present while safeguarding the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. We have a stake in the political and democratic processes in our country, Nigeria.

Big Brother will not take care of it all for us. There are some people who believe that the government will do all that we need to do. That means leaving the course of our future to politicians–to special interest groups–and to government workers. Have you noticed any one of these groups taking a stand for what you want to have happen in this country or in the world? Do they care about the things you care about? Do they want the same solutions that you want? Government workers want their jobs to go smoothly and to get their pay and their benefits. Some care about the issues and support specific efforts–but most get into trouble when they speak out.

In his last book before he was assassinated, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote:
"One of the great liabilities of history is that all too many people fail to remain awake through great periods of social change. Every society has its protectors of status quo and its fraternities of the indifferent who are notorious for sleeping through revolutions. Today, our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant and to face the challenge of change."

"The ultimate test of man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard." ~ Gaylord Nelson, former governor of Wisconsin.

When you are part of a group of concerned people, I can assure you–anything is possible! Get organized! Get going!