The Tinubu Unbirthday: Psychological Lessons for All in Presidential Humility and First Lady Empathy -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

Amidst Nigeria’s myriad challenges, President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to forgo his 72nd birthday celebration stands as a poignant symbol of humility and empathy. Against the backdrop of widespread hunger, escalating prices, and security concerns, his choice to cancel festivities underscores a deep commitment to understanding and empathizing with the struggles faced by Nigerians. Prioritizing the nation’s welfare over personal milestones, President Tinubu demonstrates a rare fusion of leadership and compassion that serves as a beacon for all.

This act of humility gains even more significance when considered alongside the impassioned plea of Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, for empathy and open-mindedness from Nigeria’s privileged class. Her critique of the tendency among the wealthy to prioritize extravagant parties over extending a helping hand to the less fortunate highlights the societal responsibility inherent in privilege. Senator Tinubu’s call for the affluent to embrace empathy and broaden their perspectives underscores the urgent need for collective action in addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic disparities. This sentiment is echoed by her husband, President Tinubu, who has exemplified compassionate leadership since assuming office in May 2023, skillfully navigating the nation through significant financial turmoil.

The leadership demonstrated by the Tinubus transcends mere rhetoric or gestures; it embodies a profound understanding of human needs and aspirations at a psychological level. By showcasing humility and empathy, President and Senator Tinubu acknowledge the interconnectedness of human experiences, emphasizing that true leadership necessitates a genuine commitment to the collective well-being.

In urging Nigerians to unite and emulate their spirit of compassion and understanding, the Tinubus advocate for a Nigeria where each citizen plays a role in uplifting the nation. Their message resonates deeply on a psychological level, tapping into the universal human desire for connection and belonging. By fostering a culture of collective responsibility and empathy, they lay the foundation for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

President Tinubu’s decision to divert resources from birthday advertorials towards charitable organizations further reinforces the message of empathy and collective action. His choice to cancel celebrations is a tangible gesture of solidarity with the nation during challenging times, reflecting a deep understanding of the prevailing mood and the imperative of unity in adversity.

This act of selflessness not only demonstrates President Tinubu’s profound understanding of Nigeria’s challenges but also exemplifies a leadership style rooted in empathy and responsibility. By encouraging well-wishers to redirect their gestures towards charitable causes, he sets a powerful example of service and compassion, inspiring others to contribute to societal betterment.

Emphasizing the need for unity and stability, President Tinubu’s message resonates deeply, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in addressing national challenges and steering towards a brighter future for all citizens. His decision serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent responsibilities of leadership and the imperative of leaders responsive to the people’s needs.

In Nigerian business, figures like Aliko Dangote, Mike Adenuga, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Femi Otedola have played pivotal roles in driving economic growth and opportunity. Their impact on the nation’s development is undeniable, reshaping industries and improving lives. As leaders in their fields, they embody entrepreneurship and innovation, fostering shared prosperity and social responsibility.

For Nigeria to realize its full potential, collaboration among stakeholders—government, business leaders, and civil society—is crucial. By fostering partnerships and pooling resources, the country can unlock opportunities for sustainable growth and development.

Furthermore, government officials, including senators, legislators, ministers, and public figures, must demonstrate solidarity with the Nigerian people, especially in challenging times. Given the nation’s economic struggles, it’s vital for them to refrain from extravagant displays of wealth and prioritize addressing people’s needs with prudence and sensitivity to prevailing conditions.

By eschewing personal privileges, leaders send a clear message of empathy and solidarity, assuring Nigerians that their concerns are being heard and addressed. This fosters a sense of shared sacrifice and collective responsibility, essential for national cohesion and resilience in adversity.

All public figures, regardless of status, should forego extravagant birthday celebrations in light of Nigeria’s economic and social challenges. Leading with humility, empathy, and fiscal responsibility, they can inspire confidence and trust among the people, laying the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future.

Furthermore, addressing practices within some religious institutions, where fear tactics pressure attendees into financial contributions, is essential. Nigerian pastors and church leaders must recognize their responsibility to act with integrity and compassion, particularly during times of economic hardship. Such fear-based tactics undermine the principles of genuine faith and compassion, exacerbating financial strain and perpetuating inequality within congregations.

Therefore, it is imperative that Nigerian pastors and church heads refrain from employing fear tactics and instead focus on promoting a message of generosity, compassion, and mutual support. Church leaders have a duty to uphold the values of empathy and social responsibility, ensuring that their congregations are not unduly burdened by financial demands but are instead empowered to contribute according to their means.

Moreover, transparency and accountability in financial matters within religious institutions are essential to fostering trust and confidence among members. Pastors and church leaders should prioritize open communication and financial accountability, ensuring that donations are used responsibly for the betterment of the community and the fulfillment of the church’s mission.

Redirecting seized funds from corruption, including returned Abacha’s looted assets, directly into the accounts of impoverished Nigerians is a commendable suggestion. By channeling these resources to those most in need, the government can take concrete steps towards addressing poverty and inequality in the country.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to recognize the immense influence of Nigerian music, particularly Afrobeats, on the global stage. Artists like Davido (David Adedeji Adeleke) and many others have not only captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious beats and melodies but have also used their platform to advocate for social causes and support those in need.

In times of hardship, music serves as a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together in solidarity and hope. The uplifting rhythms and empowering lyrics of Afrobeats offer solace and inspiration to individuals facing adversity, serving as a form of therapy and resilience in the face of challenges.

As the world grooves to the infectious tunes of Nigerian music, let us harness the power of music to drive positive change and uplift the most vulnerable in society. Let us call upon musicians, producers, and artists to lend their voices and resources to support the needy, amplifying the message of compassion and solidarity through their art.

The contributions of land developers, big contractors, and foreign corporations are paramount in fostering sustainable development and economic growth in Nigeria. These entities play a significant role in infrastructure development, urbanization, job creation, and foreign investment, all of which are essential for advancing the nation’s prosperity. Land developers and big contractors are instrumental in building critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, housing, and commercial properties, which are fundamental for enhancing connectivity, facilitating trade, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians. By investing in real estate development and construction projects, they stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.

Similarly, foreign corporations bring valuable expertise, technology, and capital to Nigeria, driving innovation, expanding markets, and promoting international trade. Their investments in various sectors, including manufacturing, telecommunications, energy, and finance, not only spur economic diversification but also foster knowledge transfer and skills development among the local workforce.

During humanitarian crises or economic downturns, the support of land developers, big contractors, and foreign corporations becomes even more critical. Their philanthropic initiatives, corporate social responsibility programs, and partnerships with government agencies and non-profit organizations can make a significant difference in addressing pressing social challenges, providing essential services, and improving the well-being of communities across the country.

Therefore, we call upon these entities to continue their efforts in supporting Nigeria’s development agenda, both through their core business activities and through strategic social investments. By working together with government, civil society, and local communities, they can contribute to building a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Nigeria for all its citizens.

The condition of requiring recipients to open a small account is a practical measure that can promote financial inclusion and empower individuals to manage their finances more effectively. Opening a bank account not only provides a secure means of receiving funds but also enables access to banking services, such as savings and credit facilities, which can contribute to long-term financial stability and independence.

Directly transferring seized funds to the accounts of the poor streamlines the process, bypassing bureaucratic obstacles and ensuring swift assistance delivery. This approach also reduces the risk of fund mismanagement or diversion, promoting transparency and accountability.

Moreover, directing these funds to the most economically vulnerable segments aligns with principles of social justice and equitable resource distribution. By prioritizing those hardest hit by corruption and economic challenges, the government can make meaningful strides in uplifting millions of Nigerians from poverty.

However, stringent measures are necessary to verify eligible recipients and prevent fraudulent claims, ensuring the funds reach those genuinely in need. Additionally, robust monitoring mechanisms should be in place to track fund utilization and evaluate their impact on poverty alleviation and socio-economic progress.

In essence, repurposing seized assets from corruption, including those recovered from figures like Abacha, to directly benefit impoverished Nigerians represents a proactive and morally sound approach to tackling poverty. This strategy not only addresses the root causes of inequality but also underscores the government’s commitment to combatting corruption while uplifting the most marginalized members of society.

By channeling these repatriated funds into the bank accounts of the poor, the government can provide much-needed financial assistance to those who are most vulnerable and marginalized. This direct injection of resources can help alleviate immediate hardships, such as food insecurity, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to education, faced by millions of Nigerians living below the poverty line.
Moreover, requiring recipients to open a small account as a condition for receiving these funds not only ensures transparency and accountability but also promotes financial literacy and inclusion. Access to banking services empowers individuals to manage their finances more effectively, save for the future, and access credit for income-generating activities, thereby fostering economic empowerment and self-reliance.

The repurposing of seized funds for poverty alleviation represents a form of restorative justice, whereby the proceeds of corruption are returned to the communities that have been most affected by it. This approach not only sends a clear message of deterrence to would-be perpetrators of corruption but also restores trust and confidence in government institutions and the rule of law.

However, it is essential to establish robust mechanisms for identifying eligible beneficiaries, preventing fraud, and monitoring the use of funds to ensure that they are used for their intended purpose. Transparent and accountable governance is critical to the success of such initiatives and must be upheld at all stages of implementation.

Providing subsidies for hospitalization and medication for sick Nigerians who are deemed to be poor is a crucial step towards ensuring equitable access to healthcare and alleviating the financial burden on vulnerable individuals and families. In a country where healthcare costs can often be prohibitive, especially for those living below the poverty line, government intervention in the form of subsidies can make a significant difference in improving health outcomes and quality of life.
Moreover, subsidizing healthcare costs for the poor in Nigeria can alleviate the financial burden caused by illness and disease. Medical expenses often push families into poverty or indebtedness, forcing them to resort to selling assets or borrowing money for treatment. Government subsidies provide crucial relief, allowing families to focus on recovery without the fear of financial ruin.

In addition to addressing immediate needs, subsidizing healthcare yields long-term benefits for public health. Timely access to medical care can prevent illness progression, reduce hospital admissions, and improve overall health outcomes. This contributes to a healthier, more productive population.

Furthermore, extending subsidies to cover higher education expenses for students in public institutions can further enhance social equity and upward mobility. Many bright and talented students from low-income backgrounds struggle to afford tuition fees, accommodation, and other educational expenses, hindering their access to higher education. Subsidies for higher education can remove these financial barriers, enabling deserving students to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute to national development.

However, subsidies must be implemented judiciously to ensure efficiency and reach those most in need. Robust eligibility criteria and monitoring mechanisms prevent misuse, ensuring that subsidies effectively support low-income individuals and families. Moreover, investments in healthcare infrastructure, capacity-building, and primary healthcare services are vital complements to subsidies. A comprehensive approach tackling both supply and demand barriers is necessary to achieve universal health coverage, educational access, and health equity in Nigeria.

Canceling fines for awaiting Nigerians in detention, especially non-violent offenders unable to pay, is a compassionate measure that addresses prison overcrowding and promotes fair treatment. Many detainees cannot afford fines, leading to prolonged incarceration without conviction, disproportionately affecting the marginalized.

By canceling fines, the government can prevent unjust punishments and promote equality before the law. Releasing detainees unable to pay fines reduces prison overcrowding, which poses health and safety risks and strains resources. However, alternatives such as community service should be considered to maintain public safety and justice administration.

Overall, canceling fines for awaiting Nigerians in detention, particularly non-violent offenders, embodies a compassionate and pragmatic approach to criminal justice reform. Prioritizing fairness, equity, and rehabilitation fosters a more just and humane criminal justice system.

Moreover, Nigeria’s governors must uphold principles of accountability, transparency, and equitable resource distribution in their governance approach. By combating corruption and ensuring responsible use of public funds, they can build trust and confidence among citizens, fostering a conducive environment for sustainable development and progress. Additionally, ensuring that Nigeria’s governors lack privileges for themselves, and their families is crucial for governance transparency and accountability. Elected representatives must lead by example, refraining from special treatment that erodes public trust and perpetuates elitism.

Privileges like exclusive access to healthcare or education undermine equality and fairness, exacerbating social inequality. Therefore, governors should be held to the same standards as citizens they serve, without entitlement to special benefits.
It is indeed a concerning trend that some Nigerian governors, upon assuming office, amass significant wealth and engage in extravagant spending, such as building mansions in the capital city of Abuja. Such actions divert resources away from addressing the pressing needs of the populace and contribute to widening socio-economic disparities. It is imperative to halt this practice and ensure that public funds are utilized judiciously for the benefit of the people. Instead of channeling resources towards personal enrichment, these funds should be directed towards improving healthcare, education, infrastructure, and other essential services that directly impact the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

To combat corruption and ensure accountability, Nigeria must enhance transparency and hold public officials responsible for their actions. Implementing robust oversight mechanisms and strengthening anti-corruption institutions are crucial steps. Stringent regulations should prevent officials from exploiting their positions for personal gain, with any wrongdoing thoroughly investigated and met with legal consequences. Fostering a culture of servant leadership among governors, prioritizing citizens’ welfare over personal interests, is essential for Nigeria to achieve inclusive development and social progress.

In the Nigerian diaspora, where many of us reside, our ongoing support through remittances has been a lifeline for our families and communities in Nigeria. President Tinubu’s past in America connects him closely with our diaspora experience. As we persist in sending financial assistance back home, let’s strengthen our solidarity with him and his aspirations for Nigeria’s advancement.

Providing subsidized assistance to farmers is essential for supporting agricultural development, ensuring food security, and empowering rural communities. Farmers play a vital role in Nigeria’s economy, providing the food and resources upon which the nation depends. However, many farmers face numerous challenges, including limited access to credit, high input costs, inadequate infrastructure, and climate-related risks.

As we contemplate the struggles faced by our fellow Nigerians, let us turn to prayer, seeking solace and guidance from a higher power. Let us bow our heads in gratitude for the humility, empathy, and selflessness exhibited by President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. What they have done is rare among Nigerian leaders, setting a shining example for presidents and leaders across our nation.

May their actions inspire leaders across our nation to follow their example, placing the collective welfare of the Nigerian people above personal interests.

In our prayers, let us beseech the Almighty for strength and wisdom for those in positions of authority, that they may govern with integrity, fairness, and compassion. May they be guided by the principles of justice and inclusivity, tirelessly working to uplift the marginalized and vulnerable in our society.

Let us also remember in our prayers the farmers, petty traders, elderly individuals, retirees, and all those in need of assistance. May they find comfort and support in the collective efforts of our leaders and communities to create a more just and equitable society.

As we look to the future, let us pray for the spirit of unity and cooperation to prevail, transcending religious, ethnic, and cultural divides. Together, let us commit ourselves to building a nation where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to fulfill their potential.

In this spirit of interfaith solidarity, let us offer our prayers for the well-being and prosperity of Nigeria and its people. Amen.

Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to President Bola Tinubu and Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the betterment of our nation. May their legacy of compassion and service continue to inspire us all. Amen.

Let us also pray for God’s guidance and protection for President Tinubu and Senator Tinubu as they lead our nation, that they may be guided by wisdom, integrity, and compassion in their endeavors. May they be shielded from harm and adversity, and may their efforts be blessed with success in building a brighter future for Nigeria. Amen.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University. John.Oshodi@mail.waldenu.edu