31/03/2026
BEING TEXT OF SPEECH PRESENTED BY CHIEF LESI MAOL, THE CONVENER, AT THE FIRST OGONI ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT GRANT AWARD CEREMONY AT WIIYAKARA, 28TH MARCH 2026.
We are gathered here today once again to make history, to stimulate and awaken our people from the mindset of survival, weakness, and deprivation that many of us still carry. We must move beyond this way of thinking and embrace the reality that we are no longer in the state of deprivation. We are now conscious, capable, and ready to stand among our peers both nationally and globally, to compete and achieve success in business and in various life adventure.
Capital is not the primary reason for business or entrepreneurial success. The key factor is the individual driving the business and the mindset. The mind is the engine room of every enterprise, and human mind is the first important factor, not capital (funds as speculated by us). Unfortunately, many people still believe that money is the most important requirement to start or run a business.
In reality, it is the human factor, a sound, smart and intelligent mind—that is the most critical ingredient required for any successful business. It is your ideas and thoughts that bring out your skills and creativity when the need arises.
We live in a world where no one waits for anyone, and time waits for no one. It is up to you to make use of the time freely given to you, to maximize the opportunities that come your way. Opportunities come to everyone in several ways and at different times in life, but many fail to recognize them when they appear. As a result, they feel less privileged, oppressed, or being denied their rights.
However, our past heroes have given us enough awareness to reset our minds as Ogoni people that we should take our destiny in our hands by being proactive and take necessary required action to be outstanding among our peers. We must understand that we are not just victims of oppression, but people who can transform adversity and deprivation into opportunities. By learning, developing ourselves, and measuring up with our peers globally, we can stand for our rights and make meaningful progress in life in various enterprises.
Today, we are witnessing a new dawn, a return to our original nature of brotherhood and love. Love has always been our trademark as good people of Ogoni. From inception, hospitality and generosity have been part of our identity, our DNA. It was once common knowledge in our history that, no one went to bed hungry in Ogoniland because we shared what we had and helped each other.
In the past, you could return late from the farm and still receive food from a neighbor or relative. If there was a misunderstanding at home, you could go to your uncle’s or aunt’s house, or even another village and be welcomed, fed, and cared for. Even non-relatives would show concern, take you in, and ensure your well-being before returning you safely to your family.
This same spirit of love extended to the cities. If you spoke your language and found yourself stranded, you could find shelter, food, and even transport assistance from our people anywhere in the world.
But today, things have changed. Many people are afraid to open their doors due to fear of crime and a growing lack of trust. Sadly, this is because we have gradually allowed our values and character to decline. Love has diminished, and we must take responsibility to restore it.
It is this lost spirit of unity and love that I am trying to revive today. I cannot do it alone, we can only achieve it together. If we all commit from today to change our attitudes and treat one another with genuine care, that original love will return, and we will once again support each other and grow together.
I am not the richest person in our land, but wealth is not defined only by material possessions. My goal is to help us return and restore our true identity as a people known for hospitality, respect, and good character. This is why we were once called Ogoni pure-pure, because our hearts, actions, and character reflected purity at every level.
My Brothers and Sisters, let us return to our original nature of showing love, kindness, and care for one another.
Today, we are here to demonstrate love, in accordance with our values and even as taught in the Bible. Those who receive support today should also extend help to others, thereby creating a chain reaction of kindness. In this way, our land will rise again and become known for positive stories rather than negative ones. Let us come together to create good news as a people.
Congratulations to all Beneficiaries today, knowing that you are now Ambassadors of Love and vanguards of change for a new Ogoni of our dream.
We will continue this initiative every year God willing. We also welcome partners and collaborators of goodwill to join us in this mission. Let us keep doing good work, uplifting our people, and spreading happiness.
God bless you all, and once again, congratulations to all beneficiaries.
Thanks and God bless you.
