The 18th Wole Soyinka Centre Media Lecture Series, organised in honour of the Centre's Grand Patron and Africa's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, Professor Wole Soyinka, as part of activities marking his 92nd birthday and celebrating his enduring legacy of truth-telling, civic engagement and democratic accountability, featured a fireside chat with Michel Deelen, the outgoing Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos. During the conversation, moderated by Motunrayo Alaka, Executive Director of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), Deelen shared his perspectives on Nigeria's democratic journey, education, investigative journalism, governance and why he believes the country's greatest strength lies in its resilient and entrepreneurial people. Event Diary Lifestyle covered the event and publishes edited excerpts.
You first came to Nigeria in 1999, shortly after the country returned to democratic rule following years of military dictatorship. Having witnessed almost the entire journey of the Fourth Republic, where do you think Nigeria has made its greatest progress, and where do you see its greatest opportunities?
Thank you very much. It always feels like family whenever I'm at the Wole Soyinka Centre.
When I first arrived in Lagos in January 1999 as a junior diplomat, the atmosphere was quite different. There were military checkpoints on bridges, sandbags and heavily armed soldiers everywhere. Nigeria had just emerged from years of military dictatorship.
That experience convinced me that military rule is never the answer. Democracy may not be perfect, but it remains the best path forward.
Over the last 23 years, Nigeria has certainly made progress. The democratic process has endured, and that is no small achievement. However, many Nigerians are still dealing with inflation, insecurity, currency devaluation and economic hardship.
One area that concerns me is security. Nigerians should be able to travel across their country, understand one another and build stronger national unity without fear.
If I had to place all my eggs in one basket, it would be education.
Quality education is the foundation for everything else. It empowers people to make informed decisions, improve their lives and strengthen democracy. Unfortunately, many schools still lack teachers, infrastructure and proper funding. Addressing those challenges should be a national priority.
The Netherlands has consistently supported independent journalism and civic space in Nigeria. What gives you confidence about the future of Nigerian journalism?
Journalism has changed dramatically everywhere in the world. Traditional newspapers are facing financial pressures, and journalists are adapting to new realities.
Despite that, I remain optimistic.
Nigerian journalists are embracing digital platforms and finding new ways to tell important stories. Investigative journalism remains essential because it uncovers issues that affect society and promotes accountability.
Young journalists especially impress me. They are passionate, curious and determined to expose the truth. With stronger professional support, continuous training and international collaboration, Nigerian journalism has an exciting future.
You have often expressed optimism about Nigeria despite its challenges. Why?
Nigeria will not fail. Not because it is a large country, but because of its people.
Nigerians are resilient, intelligent and entrepreneurial. Whenever Africa's biggest innovations or fastest-growing businesses are discussed, Nigeria is always part of that conversation. The country's greatest resource is its people.
Lagos and Amsterdam are both coastal cities. What lessons can Lagos learn from the Dutch experience?
Water management requires consistency. Simple things like clearing drainage systems, maintaining infrastructure and removing waste properly can significantly reduce flooding.
These are not impossible problems to solve. They require planning, continuity and effective governance.
At the same time, Amsterdam can also learn from Lagos. Every city has valuable experiences to share.
What is the first word that comes to mind when you think about Nigeria?
People.
Which Nigerian habit will you miss the most?
The directness. Nigerians are very straightforward, and I have come to appreciate that honesty.
What Nigerian food do you love most?
Moin moin with fish.
What is your favourite place in Nigeria?
The New Afrika Shrine.
Which Nigerian value deserves greater global recognition?
Boldness. Nigerians have an incredible confidence that they can take on the world.
Finally, what message do you have for young Nigerians?
Don't give up. Things may not be perfect, and progress takes time, but Nigeria is a wonderful country. Keep believing in its future.