In a recent interview with Symfoni TV, Sen. Akpabio recounted a conversation with Kenya’s Vice President. "During my visit to Kenya, the Vice President turned to me and remarked, 'Your Excellency, you've arrived just as my neighbor has given birth to a Nigerian,'" he recalled.
The Senate President admitted to being initially puzzled by the statement. "I responded, 'Yes, I know Nigerians are widespread, but how does the birth of this child relate to my visit?' He replied, 'No.' So I asked, 'Is the father Nigerian?' He said, 'No, he is Kenyan.' I then inquired, 'Is the mother Nigerian?' Again, he said, 'No, both parents are Kenyan, but the child is a Nigerian.'"
Providing further clarification, the Kenyan Vice President explained that in Kenya and many other African nations, there is a common belief that one in every four black individuals globally is Nigerian. As a result, when a fourth child is born, they are automatically nicknamed "Nigerian," regardless of their heritage.
Sen. Akpabio reflected on this cultural perspective, emphasizing its deeper meaning for Nigeria’s global reputation. "At times, we fail to appreciate ourselves, we lack self-love, and we underestimate our significance in the world. This belief highlights the level of recognition Nigeria commands internationally."
He suggested that Nigerians should take pride in their country's reputation and status among nations, as Nigeria, being the most populous black nation, symbolizes strength and influence across Africa and beyond.
Hear him speak: "I said, 'Yeah, I know that we're everywhere, but how come the child came just immediately I arrived?' He said, 'No.' Then I said, 'So the father is in Nigeria?' He said, 'No, the father is a Kenyan. "/I said, 'So the mother is from Nigeria?' He said, 'No, the mother is a Kenyan, and the father is a Kenyan, but the child is a Nigerian. So, if a child is born in Kenya and you are the 4th child, they call you a Nigerian; they don't need to name you."
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