By Chinonyem Nnadi, Financial Accountant, Transcorp Hotels Plc
It is the pre-election year in Nigeria and suddenly everyone on traditional and new media is a pundit on political matters. There is a lot going on already and a lot being said about it.
A frequently recurring hypothesis is that part of the country’s problems is the recycling of elderly leaders who have nothing more to offer. They say we should give the younger people a chance.
Hmm!
I am scared of the word ‘youth’ oh because the kind of people who are coming out as youth these days is worrisome. But a major concern for those who ponder is whether young blood can have the wisdom and experience required to provide solutions for a country as ethnically diverse and complex as “Naija”.
Speaking of youth, in 2017, the world looked in shock as Emmanuel Macron, a little-known former investment banker, became President of the French Republic at the “tender” age of thirty-nine (39) shortly after launching his political party called “En Marche” meaning “On The Move”. As a matter of fact, he is still regarded as a political novice, having never previously belonged to a political party or been elected as an MP (Member of Parliament).
I agree that he may have made some poor judgment calls, but haven’t we also? So, let’s just say his response at the G-20 Summit that Africa has civilization problems was not tactful. Again, maybe it wasn’t in good taste to humiliate the head of the French General Staff leading to his subsequent resignation. Perhaps this was because he is the first French President without any military experience. Recent events in Zimbabwe have proved that underestimating the military could lead to “stories that touch”.
In spite of his missteps, however, critics surmise that Macron’s success stems from the inability of the mostly fragmented opposition to recover from their presidential election-defeat. Commendably, he has steadfastly worked towards bringing France back to the centre of international activity and is making sure his voice is heard.
Could he be the leader of the new world?
The international community is watching closely – and hoping he succeeds because his success could have a ripple effect on how countries around the world would determine their future leader.
