Africa
Nigeria @64: How can I Forget Funmi Adams?, by Abdu Abdullahi
Indeed, this is a momentous era that stirs sober reflections and deep analysis of our existential living. The period of independence celebration sparks an irresistibility of unraveling our strengths and weaknesses. It focuses on where we were yesterday, where we are today, and where we NEED to GO tomorrow.
Beyond that, we ‘recollect in tranquility’ the sustained memories of our founding fathers and the selfless services they rendered for the evolution of Nigeria to make our living credible. Our main task is to adopt their nationalistic vision so that their past indefatigable labour shall never be in vain. History will forever transmit the indelible sacrifices they offered. Even though we are still a country without attaining the superlative status of a nation, yet we are at least struggling to survive as a people with spurring challenges that cut across all spheres of our life. These stubborn impediments should be the focal point of our independence narrative. In essence, we should convert our weaknesses to strengths, disallowing the latter to become a curse.
Who has forgotten the musical icon Funmi Adams’, ‘Nigeria My Beloved Country’ staged in the 1990s? Undoubtedly, the most prestigious gift Adams offered to Nigeria is this lovely song. Where many actions collapse, Funmi’s words win. This nationalistic sermon is incredible as long as its rejuvenating content lives. This is the best time to recapitulate this legend of patriotic song and music because of the symbiotic connection between Nigeria’s independence and Funmi’s enduring lyrics. Aunty Funmi’s proud melodies are the function of her burning desire for a national transformation and re-orientation. Her song of national revivalism is a national asset but is awkwardly plundered by our collective insensitivity.
I am a regular listener to this inspiring and stunning lyrical composition, often drawing me to tears because of its capacity of instilling profound emotions in me. The song strengthens my immense love for Nigeria. It spurs my elated dreams and hopes in our country. And above all, it evokes in me the exalted spirit of being loyal to my country. It constantly connects me with the artistic prowess of Funmi. The musical strength of this song confers on Adams the queen of patriotism.
Research shows that music can help one to feel more confident, putting one in a mindset that is most likely to help you succeed. The musical power of this song is relevant in this context and its popularisation can invigorate a sense of nationalism in many minds. Its aesthetic and nationalistic values are timeless and priceless, very paramount to our collective development. The great lessons of this song are very critical to our survival as an independent country. This is significantly owing to Adams’ powerful expression to champion the universal messages of cultural diversity, natural and human potentialities and resonating reliance on God as essential pillars for advancement.
China has this didactic philosophy as a source of both cultural and national aspirations. ” If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in character; if there is beauty in character, there will be harmony in the home; if there is harmony in the home, there will be order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world”. If we can transform Funmi’s agitating song as our cultural benchmark, it would be a triumph of Funmi’s philosophy of Nigeria.
‘Nigeria my beloved country’ relishly teaches us that Nigeria belongs to us and we must make it worth living. Funmi’s lyrical adaptation of ‘ working together is the key’ is a comprehensive and revolting memo to all forms of bigotry devastating us. Reflecting on her ‘ I know we have a great potential to do more than just survive’, it is a monumental ignition of spontaneous jingoism that triggers our political will to do the needful. ‘ Land of iron, coal, agriculture……..’ is a prolific sensitisation of the Divine endowment for our inclusivity of economic prosperity to make Nigeria another Dubai.
Believe you me, if it were in other countries of considerably patriotic consciousness, Adams’ deepened passion for Nigeria through this song would have earned her a ministerial appointment, a national award and honorary doctorate degree. Though she has not been involved in partisan politics, but her large and faithful party is NIGERIA. Also, the marvelous song could have been culturalised through the broadcast media and in our schools to brainstorm and brainwash the younger ones. Neverthelesss, the unforgettable song, unlike prosaic songs dealing with political themes and personalities, will continue to recognize and appreciate her indepth infatuation for Nigeria.
Nigeria was just six years into the journey of independence when she was born. Yet, she gave the country a beautiful and everlasting hit that will continue to stand the test of mass mobilisation. This revolutionary song is for all generations of Nigeria. Funmi’s lyrical legacy is a consummate agitation for the actualisation of a powerful nation through musical expression. She brilliantly succeeded where many singers failed to inculcate the sweetness of a romantic agenda for Nigeria.
The legendary Funmi is one of the casualties of our lackadaisical attitude towards negligence of extra ordinary talents. Funmi Adams has suffered several years of public exclusion after her patriotic investment for the growth of Nigeria. Where is Professor Niyi Osundare? Where are his like minds? They have a national duty to give us a holistic appreciation of Funmi’s invaluable campaign for Nigeria’s greatness. The current social media gurus need to undergo social rehabilitation and give the right honour to her.
Funmi Adams deserves our continuous remembrance and unreserved accolades owing to her patriotic overzealousness while listening ‘Nigeria my beloved country’. Let us all play it. It will give a new life to Nigeria!
Abdu Abdullahi
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