Yesterday, I had the rare privilege of being honored by both a three-star and a two-star U.S. Army General. As an immigrant from a country where connections too often outweigh competence, I don’t take moments like this for granted. I joined the U.S. Army knowing absolutely no one. I simply showed up, did the work, and earned recognition. That’s what meritocracy looks like. I know my comrades in Nigeria can't relate. Countries that reward excellence build strong institutions; countries that reward patronage eventually pay the price. God bless America! 🇺🇸