I came into NLI somewhat jaded about the prospects for Nigeria and left not entirely transformed but with a lot more hope that Nigeria can still be great and that the change we all hope for begins with ME. Listening to the facilitators and other NLI fellows challenged me to want to take a stand and make an impact in society, no matter how minute it may appear to be. Thanks, NLI, for investing in the Nigerian youth, I aim to make you and Nigeria proud.

Whether in reading Plato’s Republic, debating the philosophy behind Nigeria’s constitution, listening to insights from leading financiers and politicians, or thinking up grand, ambitious solutions to our nation’s myriad issues, my NLI experience has truly expanded my horizon and given me a new sense of possibility and optimism.

NLI presented an amazing opportunity to meet and communion with distinguished individuals who I truly believe are Nigeria’s future leaders. To know that our country has sons and daughters of this quality is both refreshing and inspiring. However, we will not change the status quo by doing nothing, we must make our voices heard on both sides of the Niger river and fight for the change we wish to see, because we are the change that we have been waiting for. Thank you NLI, thank you moderators and guest speakers, thank you Class of May 2011…the best class ever!

I have attended several sessions on leadership and developmental challenges of Nigeria but this has been the most incisive, encapsulating, apt and in-depth analysis of the leadership challenge we face as a nation. I can’t forget the Dele Olojede’s ‘Ask Nothing Of God’, Leo Tolstoy’s ‘HOW MUCH LAND DOES A MAN NEED’ etc Indeed this has emboldened my resolve to fight the Nigerian cause.

I am proud and honoured to have had the opportunity to become part of the NLI Network and to have experienced three wonderful days in the company of some of the finest Nigerians I have had the privilege of meeting. The seminar has refreshed my enthusiasm to make a difference and renewed within me a sense of optimism that we can and we will make Nigeria a truly great nation.

The NLI team led by example right through the whole process with the emphasis placed on the “team” and thus building an “institution” which functioned from start (initial contact and welcome team) to finish (the location, the learning, leaders and cocktail reception). No “airs” were shown by the leaders taking or moderating the classes and emphasis was placed on ensuring each person was heard from and the material and teachings were understood. To me, NLI is best captured by a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. – “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable… Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals”

NLI remains an innovative platform for credible and young Nigerians to contribute positively to our socio-political and economic development as a nation.