Chidinma Christy Chukwujekwu is author of ‘You Are Born to be Rich’, a book she wrote out of concern for unemployed youths in Nigeria. In this interview she talks about why writing something inspiring was necessary, and more. Excerpts:
Bookshelf: Why did you decide to write ‘You Are Born to be Rich’?
After my National Youth Service Corp year in Benue State, I noticed how many youths were unemployed and roaming the streets. Back in school, we simply focused on our studies and had no understanding of what was happening. I began to think of ways to impact the society and turned to writing because I have always loved it. I asked God for a title that would attract the youths because I know that this generation is made up of many people who don’t want to work hard and yet want to make it quick.
Bookshelf: How true is it that we are all born to be rich?
Everyone is born with a brain and if one uses it, I don’t think we will have unemployment in this country. There’s something you are born with, and when you use your skills and talent, you can go far without waiting for the government.
I am a sociologist, and back when I was in University of Lagos, we used to be sent on field work, to know exactly what is happening in the society. I used to write down my findings for future reference.
What it means to be rich is seen from different perspectives. However, the book is not religious and I don’t base my argument on any religious point of view. If you work hard, have goals and remain determined to be successful, you will be.
Bookshelf: Your second chapter is titled ‘Power Behind Thinking and Reasoning’. To what extent do you think these can help one to be rich?
Anybody can think and reason, but there’s logical and analytical reasoning and thinking. There’s also rational reasoning. Applying these determine how far you go in life. Any path you take in this life comes from your thinking and reasoning. Whatever we strive to achieve in this life is powered by these. You can’t just wake up and see yourself anywhere.
Nigerians are talented and so can do more. Sometimes it appears that education makes some feel they are too proud to take certain steps.
Bookshelf: In another chapter you said attitude towards God and time matters in achieving ones goal. Some people don’t even believe in deity, yet get rich. What do you have to say about that?
For me, time is life and it’s one of those things I value the most. Life is short. I feel anyone that doesn’t work with time lives a meaningless life. Again when it comes to attitude towards God, when you finish each day’s work, you have to be thankful and grateful to God. People who claim they don’t believe in God believe in something.
Bookshelf: What are you working on at the moment?
I have written a short story particularly for a literary contest. But I am already trying to expand it into a novel.
