By Akilani Abdullah,
Concerned about states of disunity in Nigeria, the Presidency has argued that the panacea to Nigeria’s development lies in citizens cohesion and national understanding.
The Presidency, added that, the country needs more understanding and cohesion to tackle the myriad of challenges being witnessed by the citizens.
To achieve this, the Presidency said, President Muhammadu Buhari’s vision of a unified, harmonious and purpose-driven country will be consistently be achieved.
Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, made the call in Abuja, yesterday, when he received a delegation from Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative (UHG) in his office at the Presidential Villa.
The Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative is a group of concerned Nigerians who believe citizens should reflect on the founding philosophy of unity, honour and glory, as captured in the National Pledge, and start working collectively to own and build the country, regardless of differences.
According to Adesina, more understanding from Nigerians is needed as the government tackles myriad challenges. He added that the Buhari-led administration would continue to walk the path that will ensure unity and progress.
The Special Adviser, said: “On behalf of the President, I want to really thank you for this visit, for your broadmindedness and understanding. We will continue to support initiatives that are focused on building peace and promoting harmonious living in the country.’’
In his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Dr Felix Oisamoje, who is also the Head of Media and Communications, UHG, quoted the remarks of the then Prime Minister of Nigeria, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa on the need for unity of purpose in 1957:
“Nigeria has now reached a critical stage in her history. We must seize the opportunity which has been offered to us to show that we are able to manage our own affairs properly. Every Nigerian, whatever his status, and whatever his religion, has his or her share to contribute to the crucial task; the cause for which no sacrifice will be too great. This we cannot do if we do not work together in unity.’’
Dr Oisamoje said the remarks of the late prime minister remain relevant to the nation 63 years after, noting that the amalgamation of 1914 was not an accident of history, or mistake.
“There can be no mistake when 250 of the most gifted and resourceful ethnic nations in Africa were pulled together in 1914 to create world’s biggest Black African nation on earth. That could not have been a mistake despite the fact that Nigeria may not have been an original British design or construct,’’ he added.
According to him, “105 years after amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates of Nigeria, despite intense religious, ethnic and regional pressures, we have endured together as one nation under God. Every time our enemies think we are broken, Nigeria rises up stronger than ever.’’
