One great task before our country is to build a nation from the multitude of ethnic nationalities, so that we become one. It is retrogressive that our diversity, which could be a huge asset if harnessed, is currently projected as a disunifying factor. We desperately need a glue that will bind us together, That glue is, or could be, Nigeriaism.
What is Nigeriaism?
Nigeriaism is not a political theory or dogma but an ethos, that is, a set of values and attitudes that underpin the social behaviour and relationships of a group of persons or community. National ethos is the foundation for national integration – because the behaviour of citizens is rooted in their core values.
Samples of these values, attitudes and related principles could be found in diverse parts of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, most especially in various paragraphs of Chapter II, Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy. Chapter II also states that ‘national integration shall be actively encouraged’.
The components of Nigeriaism include unity in diversity, civic competence, empowered youth, grassroots participation, and transformational leadership. For elements of Nigeriaism in the 1999 Constitution, see Sections 15(2), 15(3)(c), (d) and 15(4), Subsection 19(a), Section 23 and Section 24, as well as the appendix attached herewith.
Why do we need it?
For the above constitutional provisions to be readily recognised and operationalised by the Nigerian in the street, these need to be articulated and packaged in a manner that captures the confidence and enthusiasm of the citizenry.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo, giving reasons for the fall of the first republic, said: ‘…upon attainment of independence in 1960, Nigeria as a corporate body had no social objectives, let alone fundamental social objectives, nor did the parties in power. It was not realised that these objectives were the raison d’etre of any State and are indispensable to good and democratic government’. While social objectives have now been included in our Constitution, they exist more on paper than in practice.
Nigeriaism is a vehicle for raising the socio-political awareness of the citizenry, and for actualising the ethos espoused in our national anthem (unity, peace, love, justice, freedom). Nigeriaism challenges us all, as Nigerians, to practicalize these in our day-to-day activities.
How do we develop and implement it?
Articulation of the theoretical/sociological underpinnings of the concept.
Formal adoption by the Federal Executive Council.
Incorporation in all national policies.
Include it in Chapter II of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. (See Appendix below)
Civics education in primary and secondary schools.
National orientation programme.
Engage the private sector.
Engage the third sector.