The Ungrateful Nigerians: A Lesson in Appreciation, Understanding

Pastor Poju Oyemade, a renowned Nigerian cleric, recently delivered a sermon that has sparked a lot of conversation and reflection. In his message, he highlighted the issue of ungratefulness among Nigerians, particularly those who have been programmed to hate their country through social media.
He shared a personal experience where he encountered some Nigerians in America who were criticizing their home country, and he had to remind them of the opportunities and blessings they had received in Nigeria.
Pastor Oyemade emphasized the importance of education and hard work in Nigerian culture. He noted that a medical doctor in Nigeria can graduate with a total expenditure of 500,000 naira, whereas in America, the cost of studying medicine at a prestigious institution like John Hopkins or Harvard can be as high as $200,000.
He also pointed out that Nigerians are known for their strong work ethic and ability to multitask, often taking on multiple jobs to make ends meet.
The pastor also discussed the issue of unemployment in Nigeria, highlighting the fact that the country’s informal economy is thriving. He shared an example of a woman who was selling wigs and made 750,000 naira in a single day, without being formally employed or registered. This, he said, is a common phenomenon in Nigeria, where many people are engaged in informal economic activities that are not captured in official statistics.
Pastor Oyemade emphasized the importance of understanding the terrain and the cultural context of Nigeria. He noted that the country’s informal economy and lack of formal registration can make it difficult to accurately measure unemployment rates. He encouraged Nigerians to appreciate the opportunities and blessings they have in their country, rather than focusing on the negative aspects.
The pastor also highlighted the advantages of being Nigerian, particularly in the diaspora. He noted that Nigerian Americans are one of the most successful ethnic groups in the United States, with a strong emphasis on education and family values. He attributed this success to the Nigerian culture of prioritizing education and hard work, as well as the strong family bonds and discipline that are characteristic of Nigerian families.
In conclusion, Pastor Oyemade’s sermon is a call to appreciation and gratitude for the blessings and opportunities that Nigerians have. He encouraged his listeners to focus on the positive aspects of their country and culture, rather than dwelling on the negative. By doing so, he believes that Nigerians can unlock their full potential and achieve greatness, both at home and abroad.