Lion Omuwa Elegon (Aka Madam Lagos) is one Nigerian woman whom you cannot easily ignore. Despite her limited education, Madam Lagos stands tall in the midst of both men and women. Bold, vocal and very friendly, Lion Elegon in this interview, relieves her experience on Nigeria’s Independence day and pontificates on the way forward for the nation.
She spoke with MATTHEW OKAGHA
As one of the leading light among Nigerian women, how do you feel as Nigeria marks her 48th Independence Anniversary?
There is no doubt that as Nigerians we should all be happy on the occasion of the nation’s independence anniversary. Well, some people have said that since independence, Nigeria has not make significant progress. But we should not forget that even the United States of America which is over 100 years as an independent country, there are still problems there.
Nigeria is still a baby, and I am confident that we will make it one day. It is gradual because Rome was not built in a day.
I am happy today because the situation in the country is improving gradually and by the time the nation attains 50 years, we cannot remain the same.
Can you remember how October 1, 1960 was like?
That day, I had double joy because that was the day I gave birth to my third son who is now residing in Texas, USA. I was rejoicing as a mother who had just given birth to a baby boy and there were also celebrations on the street that Nigeria has gained independence. So you can see my mood on that day. Everybody was rejoicing on this particular day, and people said that it is only Christmas day that we use to eat rice but today, we would eat rice, and children and adults alike moved from house to house sharing and rejoicing with one another. It was a memorable day to remember.
At 48, what should Nigerians do to make the country better?
We need to work hard, Nigerians should embrace the virtnes of hard work because when you are hard working and you are not proud, anywhere you see work, you will do to earn a living. There are so many things to do to earn a living. You don’t need to steal, rob or kill before you earn a living in this life. Those who want to rob to get money should remember that when they die, they are not going to take anything away from this world. Therefore, we should be satisfied with the little we have and learn to work hard. If I as an old woman can work and get money, there is nothing stopping the young men and women from engaging in one job or the other. You can trade if you did not go to school, but I encourage our young ones to read because education is the means to empower anyone to fend for himself or herself.
What about Nigerian leaders, what should they do to make Nigeria great?
A leader must always lead by example. Our leaders should show example to the people. They should think less of themselves but more of the country and the people. When you think less of yourself, there is the tendency that you give more to those around you.
Some people have blamed the problem of Nigeria on politicians. Do you agree to that?
It is not completely true that all the problems in this country were caused by the politicians. What about the Army, the police, the customs officers. These are Nigerians who manage the affairs of this nation. They too are to blame. Yes, there are good politicians and there are also bad politicians. But what we need now is not to apportion blame on anybody but to find a way to move the nation forward.
Do you think that Nigerian women have been accorded proper recognition in this country?
Nigerian women are the strength of this nation. A woman can become a governor and a woman can become the president of this country. The knowledge and wisdom which the women use in training their children, trade and keep their home is more than that of the men. Nigerian women should be accorded more recognition. Let more women become ministers, Commissioners Managing Directors and managers and you will see that this nation will move fasten.
That is why I commend Edo State Governor, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor because he recognizes the potentials of women and he has given them due recognition in his administration; that is how it should be.
What is your message to Nigerians?
First, I want to thank His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa. He is the father of the world because after God, the Oba comes next. I send my greeting to His Royal Majesty.
I also commend Governor Osunbor for bringing development to Edo State. He is indeed, the people’s Governor.
I greet all the PDP leaders; Dr. S.O. Ogbemudia, Hon Sunny Uyigue, Chief Osamede Adun for their patriotism and love for Nigeria. These are indeed great Nigerains.
Finally, I urge Nigerian women to work hard, pray for their family and take proper care of their children, because the children are the fathers of the nation and all mothers must know that their children are their lives. They should monitor them every day, ensure that they read their books and keep away from dubious characters. If we as mothers take care of our families, the nation will become great tomorrow.
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