Nigeria My Country is a poem of reflection in which the poet expresses his sadness about the current state of his country amidst his love for the great nation. The poem depicts the love every citizen should have for their country even when they seek freedom and greener pasture.

Nigeria My Country By Ramon Yusuf

Green, White, Green

Is our colour

A nation built on hope and dreams

By amiable men of honour

Once we were at the tip

Stronger than the Titanic ship

Now, look at where we are

Maybe, it’s just a norm in Africa

Leaders of today, Agbado and co

Leaders of tomorrow, professional fraudsters

Deceit leads and truth follows

After all, it is but a prank

Righteousness, always at the peak

Opening prayer before we speak

Yet, the basket of morals leaks

And patriots are seen as freaks

Still, many conquer

And rise above the brouhaha

To become champions of the world

These are the selected few

Some say they are built for the struggle

Some believe they were only lucky

Some kind of genotypic puzzle

That is solved by “destiny”

Nigeria, my country

I will be faithful, loyal, and honest

But won’t think twice to be free

If japa becomes a skill, I shall be the best

How funny it may sound

But the truth is bitter

Even those who put us at ease now

Run away later

Yet, we need to ask

Is this the right choice?

To escape the pains of fatherland

To a land where I am hated for being different

So, I have to decide

To either take the knee

Or join the protest

Either way, I may not return

But my love for Nigeria is above

I shall remain and fight for my place among heroes

And continue to tame the wolves

Because Nigeria is my country

Commentary Of Nigeria My Country

The poem “Nigeria, My Country” is a heartfelt and thought-provoking piece that reflects the complex emotions and experiences of the poet as a citizen of Nigeria. It explores the country’s history, challenges, and the struggles faced by its people in a candid manner.

The poem begins by celebrating Nigeria’s national identity, symbolized by the colors green, white, and green. It acknowledges the nation’s foundations, built on hope and dreams by honorable individuals. However, the poet acknowledges that there has been a decline from a once powerful and promising state to a place of disillusionment.

The portrayal of Nigeria as a nation where righteousness is emphasized through prayers but moral values are lacking suggests a disconnect between words and actions. The leaders, both present and future, are criticized for their shortcomings, being described as “Agbado and co” (representing the current leaders) and “professional fraudsters” (referring to the potential future leaders).

The poet also acknowledges that some individuals rise above the challenges and become champions, despite the difficult circumstances they face. The concept of fate and destiny is explored, suggesting that some are destined for greatness while others struggle to find their way.

The poet expresses conflicting emotions about the country, torn between loyalty and a desire for freedom. The term “japa” (a Nigerian slang for escaping or leaving the country) reflects the temptation to seek a better life elsewhere, but the poet’s love for Nigeria keeps them anchored to their homeland.

The poem also highlights the dangers and risks associated with speaking out against injustice in Nigeria, as protests and dissent can be met with violence and persecution. The poet acknowledges the difficulty of choosing between conformity and resistance but ultimately decides to stay and fight for their place among the heroes.

In conclusion, “Nigeria My Country” is a poignant expression of patriotism, love, frustration, and hope. It captures the struggles faced by the Nigerian people, the challenges of leadership, and the internal conflict experienced by those who wish for positive change. It serves as both a critique of the current state of affairs and a call for continued efforts to create a better and more just Nigeria.