Social engineering works best when it is targeted and timely.

This call for a rethink in the spending priorities of the different quarters of Nnobi is targeted, first, at the leadership of Ebenesi, Ngo, and Awuda.  

Ndi Nnobi should demand that the leadership at various quarters should direct efforts towards community support initiatives that can yield long-lasting benefits for their quarter.

Activities such as food drives education or health initiatives not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the overall well-being of our residents. By reaching out to those who are less fortunate, you can ensure that the spirit of the season resonates throughout your villages.

The need to improve quarter-day celebrations in Nnobi is also timely.

It is not too late to redirect the millions being raised for quarter-day celebrations to what matters. If your quarter is already heading in the same direction as raising millions and burning it in 4 hours, use the November meeting to demand a change of course.

Good followers, too, have the responsibility to weigh in and refocus the activities of their special day on shared experiences that foster connection among villagers.

Enye ndi eba, Enye ndi eba (Nyesom Wike).

We should not just go to these meetings without a sense of purpose and responsibility.

After all, we are quick to point out the wastefulness of Tinubu’s government. What then stops us from doing the same in matters that are closer to home?

If we cannot come together and make meaningful suggestions that will improve our well-being and that of our brothers and sisters in the village, what makes us think we can change what is going on in Alausa (Ikeja) or Aso Rock (Abuja)?  

If the need to rethink our spending priorities is not included in the November meeting of Ndi Ebenesi, Ngo, and Awuda in Lagos, for example, bring it up under AOB.

• Make a moral argument for the allocation of 60% of the money raised for food drives, school renovation, and healthcare initiatives.
• Remind everyone present at the meeting that helping hands come from compassionate hearts.
• Insist on change.
• Remind your leaders that the success of their administration will not measured by the millions of Naira that they raised and “burnt” in 4 hours, but by the little sparkle they add to the community.

The public primary schools in our quarters are falling apart, the health posts in some quarters are not functional, and dozens of brilliant students are dropping out of school due to financial hardship.

Ask your quarter chairman if he has taken time to visit the schools and health care post his quarter to understand the state of decay and dysfunction. What have you done to improve the poor (some terrible) state of your primary school at Nnobi?

Responsible leadership and followership demand that we rethink and reprioritize our spending.

Enye ndi eba, Enye ndi eba.

If we fail to judiciously spend the money we are raising, where then is the difference between us and Tinubu, Uzodimma, Apkabio, and the rest?

If we are comfortable with wasteful spending in our villages, quarters, and towns, what moral right do we have to question the same at the state and federal levels?

Ensuring Accountability and Transparency

To maximize the impact of our spending during Village Day celebrations, it is essential to avoid wastefulness and ensure accountability and transparency in financial matters.

By openly sharing financial reports with the community, we build trust and demonstrate that every contribution is being used wisely.

This commitment to transparency not only enhances credibility but also encourages more villagers to participate and contribute to future events.

Conclusion.

In conclusion, redirecting the focus of Village Day celebrations toward activities that have meaningful and lasting impacts on our community is not only beneficial but necessary.

By reserving funds for those in need, embracing low-key celebrations, supporting community initiatives, and reserving funds to revamp our schools and health posts, we can create an event that truly reflects the values of compassion and inclusivity.

Let us come together to celebrate not just for ourselves but for each other, building a stronger, more united village for generations to come.

We are stronger, together.