A few weeks ago I noticed that my passport would soon expire and I promptly applied for a new one.
Today as I waited to collect my new passport, a lot of things passed through my mind. They called me in to thumbprint and pick my passport. I held the green passport, I starred at the Coat of Arms at the back and the bold inscription in front… The FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, I smiled warily and asked, Would I ever want to exchange this for any other. I am sure the immigration officers must have been bemused as I expressed my appreciation and walked out.
Would I??? Would I???
Despite our numerous challenges.
Despite bad governance
Despite desperately corrupt leaders
Despite the near collapse of infrastructure
Despite acute tribalism
Despite uncountable “despite”
I realize I still love my green passport.
It is ME. ME. ME…
It speaks of my history, my heritage…
It tells the story of my great-great-grandfather, a Saro reurneee and interpreter for Henry Townsend in Abeokuta(family history book).. It tells the Story of Daddy Agba and Maami.
It tells the story of my village, my town and above all my Nation. It captures the history of how my country came to be and her journey and struggles.
No other Passport can define me this way.
No other Passport can speak for me like my Green Passport.
No other Passport can put together our story…. the story of Nigerians… like the Green passport…..It stands for inner strength, resilience, determination, the deep belief in God, Creativity, ability to smile despite all odds, talent, love, zest for life and so much more that goes into our DNA.
Despite all…. I remain Proudly Nigerian.
My Green Passport…Can I exchange it for any other????
