The Nigerian media space is in a celebration mood. Today, Nigerians all over the world are raising their green and white flags with pride. Not even a seer saw the sharp transformation from the frayed nerves, bitter emotions, and intimidation to the unified echo of pride and joy of the Naija spirit.

Hilda Effiong Bassey, a 27 year-old chef, has just suspended Nigeria’s year-long episode of frightful mob culture and political war of words and blackmail with her cook-a-thon. The chef and restaurateur has set her sights on breaking the Guinness World Record for the “longest cooking marathon by an individual”. The current record stands at 87 hours and 45 minutes and was set in 2019 by Lata Tondon, an Indian chef.

It is the first time in recent times that Nigerians across political divides, tribes, religions, and backgrounds have spoken in one voice. Hilda Baci’s attempt is a testament to the passion and commitment of the average Nigerian youth to achieving their dreams. From the President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to the sitting Vice President of Nigeria to Nigeria’s top celebrities, economists, activists, political actors, entertainers, e.t.c., every Nigerian is rooting for Hilda´s success. Not even Hilda’s age, tribe, religion, gender, or political beliefs matter at the moment. Under the sun and in the rain, Nigerians across ages are rooting for and giving their unalloyed support to Hilda. Every Nigerian is celebrating Hilda’s unflinching commitment to place the nation on the world map! There is so much to learn from these events.

Regardless of the specific motivation behind Bassey’s attempt, it is commendable that Nigerians have abandoned the stench of political toxicity and its zombie domino effect to embrace the Nigerian dream. Hilda Bassey has done more than break a world record. She is teaching us that a united Nigeria is possible. That there is beauty in our diversity as Nigerians. Hilda’s feat is a confirmation that the Nigerian dream can be achieved in Nigeria by Nigerian youths through immense dedication, persistence, and skill. Hilda is a symbol of hope for the Nigerian girl-child. That a child of nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody. Nigerians still have empathy, and our love for our nation is very much alive. Whether we are Obidients, Batists, Atikulated, or lovers of Sowore, a greater Nigeria is possible with unity, perseverance, innovation, collaboration, and promoting Nigeria to the world.

As we gear up for the decision of the Justice Haruna Tsammani-led Presidential Election Tribunal, I hope that we all learn to love Nigeria more than our political interests. I pray that Nigerians youths learn that by working together and celebrating our diversity, we can build a more united and prosperous Nigeria for all.

Many thanks to Hilda Bassey for giving us a breath of fresh air!

God bless Nigeria.

Titilope T. Anifowoshe is an active Nigerian citizen