ARTICLE - APGA National Chairman Calls For Second Foundation “A Possibility Mindset Growing An Economy That Works

Written By Nduka Anyanwu 

Abuja, Nigeria —The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, has shared insightful reflections on The Second Foundation: A Possibility Mindset – Growing an Economy That Works. 

The National Chairman emphasized that, in the journey of nation-building, the most profound transformation begins not with policies or resources but within the collective mindset of a people.

 He stated that Africa, despite being rich in land and talent, remains underperforming not because of a lack of resources but because of a lack of belief—belief in ourselves, in our potential, and in the greatness that lies ahead.

He pointed out that too often, the narrative of defeatism dominates our discourse. He remarked that many are told that "nothing works" or that "this nation is cursed," narratives that, he said, are deeply ingrained from colonial times and reinforced through generations. These perceptions, he noted, act as mental shackles that hinder progress. 

While colonialism may have officially ended, their mental shadows still loom large, casting doubts and fostering a defeatist attitude that sabotages collective efforts.

Barrister Ezeokenwa stated plainly that **Africa is not poor; it is poorly believed in**. He explained that the continent is abundant—rich in land, minerals, human capital, and entrepreneurial spirit—yet these assets remain underutilized because of a deficit of confidence. 

He emphasized that without belief in our capacity to create change, we risk becoming spectators rather than architects of our destiny. He argued that this mental barrier is the greatest obstacle to economic growth.

Drawing from historical examples, he highlighted that mindset has often been the key to transformation. He cited how China rose from poverty to become an economic powerhouse because its leaders and citizens believed in their potential. 

He mentioned India’s rise as a global hub for IT and pharmaceuticals, driven by investments in human potential and innovation. He also referenced Singapore, once a small, resource-poor island, which defied expectations through disciplined leadership and a mindset rooted in greatness.

He made it clear that these examples teach us that change begins within. It is about cultivating what he called a **"possibility mindset"**—an unwavering belief that our nation can and will rise to greatness.

Barrister Ezeokenwa urged Nigerians and Africans alike to move away from merely celebrating survival and to start fostering a culture of excellence. 

He stressed that this requires a conscious effort to change internal dialogues and perceptions, beginning with leaders, citizens, and institutions—believing in the possibility of a thriving economy, a just society, and a prosperous future.

He introduced the idea of the **"second foundation,"** describing it as a mental revolution that makes transformation possible if we establish a new mental foundation—one rooted in hope, confidence, and proactive belief. He emphasized that this foundation is not built on empty promises but on a collective conviction that we can, and must, change our narrative.

Concluding his speech, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa underscored that **every economic system begins in the mind**. He expressed his conviction that if we nurture a mindset of possibility, discipline, and greatness, we will unlock the true potential of our nation. He reiterated that Africa is not inherently poor; it is poorly believed in. 

The time, he said, is to believe in ourselves and to build an economy that works—one driven by a shared conviction in our collective capacity for greatness.

He finished by calling on all Nigerians and Africans to embrace this **second foundation**—a mindset that transforms dreams into realities—because the future of Africa depends on it. 

Mr. Nduka Anyanwu Special Adviser Media To APGA National Chairman