The Igbo proverb, “Aka àjà àjà na-ebute ọnụ mmanụ mmanụ” literally mean “a dusty hand brings about an oily mouth”. This is a powerful philosophy on diligence and reward. It is a direct and forceful articulation that hard work is the inevitable precursor to success and enjoyment. The “dusty hand” signifies the toil, the risk and the sweat of honest labor or enterprise, while the “oily mouth” represents the resulting wealth, comfort and satisfaction.
This concept is the backbone of the Igbo entrepreneurial spirit that emphasize success is earned, not given. It rejects the illusion of effortless prosperity reminding us that onye febe nkwụ, nkwụ ewere ihe o ji nye ya (if a person worships the palm tree, the palm tree will give him what it has).
The modern economy demands that young men and women internalize this ancient wisdom. Gone are the days of waiting for white-collar jobs. The call now is for enterprise and self-reliance. Mmadụ kwere, chi ya ekwee Your destiny is largely in your hands. Young people must develop the courage to become job creators rather than job seekers.
Embracing entrepreneurship is not just about financial freedom. It is about having a voice and building intergenerational wealth thereby preventing the pitiable situation where “anaghi eji anya ala-nna eme ihe” one should not use the eyes of one’s native land for one’s own affairs. This mean one should not rely solely on your community’s past efforts.
However, being enterprising is a double-edged sword. While the rewards are immense, the journey is fraught with peril. Understanding these dynamics helps one prepare for the battlefield of business. The Igbo adage often says, “Ugo chara acha adịghị echu echu” when you do what you are good in, you shine bright.
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DIBIA NWANGWU UCHENDU 