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By Daniel Kanu
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has said purposeful leadership and accountability must be entrenched by leaders to build trust among Nigerians, noting that this would ensure Nigeria remains a country where patriotism thrives.
According to him, national unity and inclusivity are paramount in eliciting patriotism among Nigerians. “We must strengthen our national symbol and tradition. Reviving patriotism is a task for all of us. We must all work together to foster and rekindle the flames of patriotism in our country by promoting unity.”
The governor, who spoke at a public lecture he delivered in Lagos, yesterday, on the theme: “Where are the Nigerians? A study on patriotism and citizenship” raised concern over the sense of love and national pride exhibited among Nigerians for the country, stressing that unless patriotic zeal is strengthened and its threat properly addressed, Nigerians would continue to record low level commitment to love for country.
He pointed out that provision of security, prosperity, inclusivity, justice and level playing field would renew patriotic zeal among Nigerians.
He urged leadership to engage in the task of building a united nation and rebuild trust to erase the palpable despair most Nigerians have for the country.
The governor observed further that patriotism fosters a sense of belonging, uniting citizens from diverse background to work together for the nation’s development.
“First and foremost, we must promote and embody our national values, citizenship, integrity, and national pride should not just be only words we recite, but principles we live by.
“We must keep looking to our history for inspiration. Our founding fathers and leaders of Independent Nigeria had patriotism in their DNA. But the sweet lyrics of an anthem, the soothing words of a pledge, the bright colors of a flag and the wishes of our forefathers will not be enough. Accountability, integrity, and purposeful leadership must be at the forefront of our efforts.”
Uzodimma attributed Nigeria’s long history with corruption, nepotism, misgovernance and lack of patriotism as the reasons many citizens would not want to die for the country.
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He said most Nigerians were not prepared to die for their country because Nigeria is not merit-driven.
“Although the security situation in our country has witnessed tremendous improvements in recent times, the damage one by waves and seasons of sheer brigandage across the country is simply bewildering.
“From the insurgency in the northeast to the banditry plaguing the northwest, from the communal clashes in the Middle Belt to the rise of separatist agitations in the Southeast a d Southwest. These threats not only endanger our citizens but also erode the fabric of our nationhood.
“It is unrealistic to expect unconditional patriotism from a man or woman, boy or girl whose loved ones were mowed down by bandits, whose means of livelihood is threatened by criminals acting with impunity, whose sense of security is compromised and whose feeling of belonging is shortchanged because of his or her ethnic or religious background.
“Patriotism is alien to such people, especially when it seems the country has given them neither justice nor reprieve. Can you preach patriotism to the men, women and children who have been living in IDP camps across the country?
“If citizens have no confidence in the capacity of the country to provide social justice or equity, is it fair to expect fervent loyalty or patriotism from them?”
The governor said those in the leadership positions and stakeholders must right the wrongs to elicit the spirit of patriotism among the populace. He said the mistrust and several heartbreaks the citizens have suffered were responsible for declining patriotism in the country.
The governor maintained that the wave of ‘japa syndrome’ was informed by Nigerians’ quest to have a better life and live where the system works.
The occasion was a gathering that brought together, Political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, academics, industrialists, professionals, etc from all walks of life.
They include Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Gen Ike Nwachukwu, Ikedi Ohakim, Bashorun J K. Randle, Çhíef Uche Nnaji, Minister for technology and Innovation, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Oguwusi, Chief Olakunle Agbebi, Senator Ben Obi, Dr. MacDonald Ebere, Imo State, APC chairman, Otunba Johnson Fasawe, Chief Greg Mbadiwe, Senator Osita Izunaso, Declan Emelumba, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, King Dakolo, Martin Agboso, Chief Alex Duduyemi, Chris Anyanwu among others.
