By: ‘dayo Adedayo
In the Yoruba mythology, there is a calling that comes with every soul’s arrival on Earth, “iṣẹ́ orí rán wa”, a divine task inscribed in the spirit, long before the first cry of birth.
It is this sacred assignment that I have chosen to honour, and in doing so, I stand not as one who stumbles upon success, but as one led by destiny’s whisper.
Fourteen years ago, I stood behind my desk at a military conference in Abuja, exhibiting images that told the story of a nation’s strength, culture, and heritage.
Those moments, frozen in time, remain among the steps on the ladder of purpose.
They were not captured by chance, but by obedience to the inner voice that said, “Go, document, preserve.”
“Ìṣẹ̀ ni ògùn ìṣẹ̀”, work is the antidote to poverty, yes. But beyond survival, work is worship, and diligence is dignity. We must labour not just for wealth, but for the honour of our name, the pride of our lineage, and the peace of our minds.
To the youth who dream of empires overnight, remember: “ Wọn kò kọ́ Abùjá ní ọ̀sán kan.” Abuja was not built in a day.
- The palm tree does not bow for any climber, and the heights are conquered not in haste, but in honour. “Díẹ̀ díẹ̀ ni ìgbín ń gún igi òpẹ.” The snail patient, quiet and steady, reaches the top.
We are not all called to be Dangote, Adenuga, Okoya, Otedola, or Elumelu. But we are all called to be something, to rise in our truth, to toil with clean hands, and to rest in peace of mind.
The greatest wealth is not riches, but in health and fulfilment.
As the new week begins, I look back with gratitude and ahead with faith. May we all find joy in our purpose, and may our children bless us for the paths we chose. “Ọlọ́run má jẹ́ ká ṣe iṣẹ́ oníṣẹ́”, may we never labour in vain.
May Nigeria rise.
May Nigeria thrive.
May Nigeria succeed.
May her sons and daughters find strength, wisdom, and peace in their calling. Àmín.