Former Nigeria Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador (Dr) Yemi Farounbi has charged Nigerians to embrace and act on the words of first President of the United States, George Washington in order to shape their lives for self-reliance, personal growth, empowerment, and responsibility.
Ambassador Yemi Farounbi (OON) gave the charge at a Speech he delivered at the 5th annual empowerment programme of FIFE IMPACT FOUNDATION, held in Ibadan on March 18, 2025.
According to him, if the people really need to get it right, then they need to embrace and act firmly on the words of George Washington.
“Today, I want to share with you a profound quote from the first President of the United States, George Washington. He said, “No one can do for you what you cannot do for yourself.”
Ambassador Yemi Farounbi noted that the words, spoken by a man who played a pivotal role in shaping America’s history, hold a depth of meaning that is just as relevant today as it was back then.
“Washington’s quote emphasizes the importance of self-reliance. It reminds us that our lives are our own, and that we are accountable for our choices, actions, and decisions. No one else can take responsibility for our lives; it’s up to us to take the reins.
The elder stateman said, “This quote also highlights the need for personal growth and development. It encourages us to develop the skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to achieve our goals and realize our dreams. When we take ownership of our lives, we become more confident, self-assured, and capable of overcoming obstacles.
He explained that Washington’s words empower us to take control of our lives adding that they remind us that we have the power to shape our own destiny, to make our own decisions, and to create our own opportunities. No one else can do it for us; we must do it for ourselves.
“This quote also reminds us that with great power comes great responsibility. We must take responsibility for our actions, our decisions, and our lives. We must be accountable for our mistakes, and we must learn from them.
In conclusion on Washington’s quote, “No one can do for you what you cannot do for yourself,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-reliance, personal growth, empowerment, and responsibility.
