By Henry Umahi
July 18, 2024, was a day of brainstorming, intellectual navigation and friendship consolidation. That day, men and women of timber and calibre, from the fringe of the Sahara to the Atlantic coastline, gathered at the Yoruba Tennis Club, Lagos, which Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State described as “an incubation centre for ideas on peace and unity in the country.”
The distinguished guests came to listen to Uzodimma as he delivered a lecture titled “Where are the Nigerians?A discourse on patriotism and citizenship.” Top politicians, captains of industry, boardroom titans, professionals, media gurus and top-grade monarchs, among others, converged on the facility.
The royal fathers, who were elaborately costumed in beautiful native attire, added colour to the occasion. They made fashion statements with royal beads of different colours, shapes and designs that adorned their necks and hands.
The guests included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; his Ekiti State counterpart, Mr. Kayode Oyebanji; Ooni of Ife, Oba Eniitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd.), Çhief Uche Nnaji, Minister for Technology and Innovation, Ikedi Ohakim, Chief Olakunle Agbebi, Sen. Ben Obi, Bashorun J.K. Randle, Sen. Chris Anyanwu, Dr. MacDonald Ebere, Imo State APC chairman, Otunba Johnson Fasawe, Chief Greg Mbadiwe, Sen. Osita Izunaso, Chief Declan Emelumba, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, King Dakolo, Chief Martin Agboso, Chief Alex Duduyemi and students of Kings College, Lagos, among others.
In his opening remarks, Sanwo-Olu extolled Uzodimma’s performance in office, saying that Imo State is better now than he met it. He described Uzodimma as citizen-driven and hardworking.
Uzodimma received thunderous ovation as he presented a well-thought-out, well-articulated and exhaustively researched lecture centred on the need for Nigerians to prioritize patriotism and sacrifice for the nation’s progress. He emphasized that true patriotism requires selflessness and the willingness to make sacrifices for the country.
It was obvious that Uzodimma was adept at public lecture presentation. The simplicity and profundity of his message captured the attention of the guests and they responded accordingly. A flautist added a touch of culture each time the crowd roared in appreciation of Uzodimma’s erudition.
Explaining why he chose the topic, Uzodimma said: “I know some people would be nursing this question, and many more would be wondering what I intend to achieve with a lecture entitled, ‘Where are the Nigerians?’ My simple response is that the issue of patriotism among citizens is currently on the front burner of conversations on how countries can overcome their challenges and attain greatness. This may have informed the decision of President Tinubu, who recently urged the ministry of information and national orientation to find ways to raise the feeling of patriotism amongst Nigerians. Personally, I have read many articles and listened to many commentaries on the issue of declining patriotism amongst Nigerians. “
Uzodimma remarked that to his shock and disappointment, Nigeria is often excluded from the list of countries covered by many of global surveys. Therefore, as part of the lecture, he proposed an empirical assessment of the degree of patriotism in Nigerians.
Take this from Uzodimma: “The idea is to determine to what degree Nigerians love their country and how willing they are to make sacrifices for Nigeria. In other words, we want to find out what percentage of Nigerians are willing to make sacrifices, including the supreme sacrifice, for the country. Being patriotic by loving one’s country is one thing, but having the confidence that the country guarantees social justice and provides citizens with a level playing field to operate is a different kettle of fish. So, we shall also empirically determine the level of confidence amongst Nigerians on the social justice side of the citizenship coin.
“This is because patriotism must go with a guarantee of social justice or equity for citizenship to blossom to the point where citizens are proud to be identified as citizens of a country. It is also true that where social justice and equity are absent, it may be difficult to find true citizens in every sense of the word.
“As part of this lecture, we want to determine where Nigeria belongs. Does she fall into the category of countries whose true citizens are hard to find? Or does she fall into the category of a country where the citizens are proud to make sacrifices?
“This explains why I posed the question – where are the Nigerians? Simply put, we need to first find out whether we have Nigerian citizens who believe that the country provides them with a level playing field for equity and social justice. In essence, we seek to know the proportion of the citizens of Nigeria who are willing to make sacrifices for the country. So, while all citizens of Nigeria are Nigerians, we are looking out for the Nigerians who are truly proud of their Nigerianness and are therefore ready to go all out to love and defend her if and when necessary. So, this whole lecture is fashioned to be a clear departure from the norm because it is a discussion about the real and verifiable feelings of the people, and not theory.”
Uzodimma, who stated that he has a strong desire to see Nigeria rise to truly become the greatest country in Africa and possibly the world, added that he is emboldened by the fact that many countries have risen rapidly over short periods of time to achieve unexpected greatness.
“I am also an incurable optimist in this regard, because I believe that if we do the right things, Nigeria will truly be great. Expectedly, I reflect this zeal each time I have the opportunity to present a public lecture such as this. Often, I look at those things we need to do to make Nigeria great. This explains why only last month, when I had the privilege of delivering the 52nd Convocation Lecture of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka I chose to speak on the topic, ‘Why universities should lead the way to a new Nigeria’. By the way, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is the first indigenous University in the country. Here I am today, delivering a lecture on the platform of the oldest indigenous club in Nigeria. What a lucky man I must be to have been given these rare opportunities to lead a conversation and drink from the fountains of wisdom at these legacy institutions that define the history of Nigeria.”
Noting that a high degree of similarity can be seen between patriotism and nationalism, and both terms are often used interchangeably, he said that it encompasses various aspects, such as love for one’s country, sense of belonging, pride in leadership, sense of security, and national pride.
Uzodimma further said: “Over time, scholars and opinion leaders have explored these facets of patriotism and have offered various insights into the nature and expression of this sentiment which incidentally is the oxygen that energizes a nation. This is so because at the core of patriotism lies an unconditional love for one’s country, inspiring citizens to sacrifice for the nation’s honour and protection. Our men and women in the armed forces come to my mind whenever I think of the highest degree of patriotism which includes a willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice. This explains why they are accorded the highest recognitions and respect in most countries, especially the United States. (And I look forward to a time when a comparable degree of respect will be extended to serving and retired men and women of the Nigerian armed forces).
“Patriotism also fosters a sense of belonging, uniting citizens from diverse backgrounds to work together for the nation’s development. The concept of ‘One Nigeria’ is a powerful testament to the idea that our unity is our strength. Programmes like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Unity Schools were conceived to promote a sense of allegiance and brotherhood among young Nigerians, highlighting the importance of a shared sense of belonging for our country’s progress.
“Pride in leadership, both past and present, is another essential component of patriotism. We look to the examples set by our founding fathers, like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Sardauna of Sokoto, who fought tirelessly for our nation’s independence and laid the foundation for our unity and democracy. Their selfless dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress is a constant reminder of what it means to be true patriots.
“Patriotism also provides a sense of security for the nation and its citizens. The Nigerian Armed Forces, comprising the Army, Navy, and Air Force, stand ready to defend our nation’s territorial integrity and protect its citizens, exemplifying a fiery patriotic spirit. This commitment to serving and safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and interests is a crucial aspect of patriotism.
“National pride, the sense of pride and accomplishment from being part of a nation, is another vital element of patriotism. Events like our Independence Day and Democracy Day celebrations and the National Sports Festival showcase Nigerian national pride, while the success of our athletes on the global stage brings glory to our nation and strengthens our shared sense of accomplishment.
“Several factors contribute to developing a strong sense of patriotism among the citizens of any nation. For Nigeria, they include our rich cultural heritage and our status as the largest country in Africa. These factors infuse a shared sense of national identity and pride.”
To further ventilate the topic, Uzodimma examined available research and data on patriotism and citizenship in Nigeria. He analyzed several surveys, studies, and other relevant information that one could appreciate the level of patriotic sentiment among Nigerians. The summary is that the people have little or no faith in the ability of any institution, be it government, religion, tribe, or club to protect their interests.
Uzodimma also noted: “From our survey, it was established that Nigerian citizens love their country almost passionately. They go further to demonstrate this by making it clear that they feel safe outside their home states. They also do not feel threatened by fellow countrymen and women from other ethnic groups. A good number of Nigerians would rather stay in Nigeria than leave the country or “japa”, as they call it. Interestingly, they also have the confidence that the security agencies can protect and keep them safe. These are the positive takeaways.
“The second set of takeaways is on the negative and quite instructive: most Nigerians are not prepared to die for their country. From literature, citizens of developing countries are believed to have a stronger desire to go to war than citizens of developed countries.
“The other takeaway is that many Nigerians do not have the confidence that any of the formal institutions, be it government, religious, tribal, or even social institutions, can protect their interests.
The last takeaway from this category is more profound. The majority of our people don’t believe that the state provides a level playing field for its citizens to accomplish themselves. This bothers on the citizens’ perception of how just and fair the instruments of state power are to them.
“But the real takeaway here is that the people of Nigeria are naturally patriotic (they love their country), but they have not been encouraged by their nation to become the Nigerians who are ready to die for their country because they believe in her. In other words, Nigerians love their country, but they have this feeling that this love has not been reciprocated by the country they so love. (I am sure we have all been in love at one point or the other, and we should all be familiar with that feeling of frustration when your love is not being reciprocated. Remember, there is a thin line between love and hate, and the more the love, the worse the hate). This probably explains why we are stuck and why we must work harder to create more patriotic Nigerians who are also willing to make sacrifices for our country.
“The results of our survey are quite humbling. They point to a worrisome decline in a feeling of patriotism among Nigerians across several key parameters. In other words, something is amiss. What combination of factors could be responsible for this near cynicism among our countrymen and women? Theoretically, a number of factors are known to weaken a sense of patriotism amongst citizens. They include a lack of knowledge of a country’s values, history and culture, critical assessment of the government, and personal negative experiences such as injustice, inequality and corruption.”
Uzodimma stated that Nigeria faces a variety of threats that strike at the heart of citizen’s patriotism.
He added: “Although the security situation in our country has witnessed tremendous improvements in recent times, the damage done 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 and 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? Like William Cowper put it, ‘No man can be a patriot on an empty stomach’. 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? Your guess is as good as mine.”
Uzodimma expressed that political challenges cast a long shadow over the nation. “Corruption – that insidious cancer – continues to eat away at our institutions and our individual and collective feeling of patriotism.
The practice of looting our commonwealth, some of which is invested abroad at the detriment of our own economic development is about the most unpatriotic act a public office holder can undertake. Our long history with nepotism and mis-governance undermines public trust amongst Nigerians. These issues do not merely hinder our progress; they actively work against the very ideals of nationhood and patriotism which we hold dear.
“Inept leadership of the past has rained many socioeconomic disparities in our society. The gap between the privileged and the disadvantaged widens daily, creating a nation divided not just by ethnicity or religion, but by inequality, opportunity and access to resources. As a result, most of our citizens do not believe that our country holds equal opportunities for everyone. This inequality strikes at the very heart of our patriotic zeal. It dampens that zeal in more ways than one.
“These issues have created a crisis of patriotism in our nation. They have led many to question their faith in Nigeria and to doubt the promise of our great country, Nigeria.”
He said he did not enumerate the challenges to dishearten his listeners. Rather, he mentioned them because the challenges must be confronted head-on if Nigeria must overcome.
Uzodimma said: “I stand here today to tell you that all hope is not lost. The spirit of Nigeria – that indomitable will that has seen us through countless trials – still burns bright. Our potential remains vast, our resources abundant, and our people resilient.”
He said the country needs a renewal of national spirit, a recommitment to the ideals that bind the people together as one nation.
“We must work tirelessly to address these challenges, to build a Nigeria that provides security, prosperity, and justice for all its citizens.
“This task falls not just on the government, but to every Nigerian. We must each play our part in rebuilding trust, promoting unity, and rekindling the flames of patriotism amongst Nigerians. We must remember that Nigeria is more than just a geographical expression – it is our home, our heritage, and our hope for the future.
“But how do we face these challenges practically? How do we renew patriotic zeal among the 225 million people who call Nigeria home? How do we reclaim and bring back the Nigerians who do not feel that their dear country offers them sufficient space for equity and social justice? Hereunder is my opinion on how this can be achieved. One thing is clear. I hold the view that these Nigerians have never given up on Nigeria, so they can be reclaimed.”
On how to bring back the Nigerians, the governor said: “Every day, we are faced with situations that make us wonder the kind of country we would bequeath to our children. The thought or prospect of bequeathing a country devoid of nationalism, security and patriotism is scary and the task of reclaiming Nigerians is an urgent one.”
He outlined a number of strategies that would bring back the unique feeling of pride in being a Nigerian, and this will in turn help to find the elusive or missing Nigerians.
“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. Our National Orientation Agency and the entire Ministry of Information and National Orientation will spearhead efforts to champion these values, inspiring a renewed commitment and loyalty to Nigeria among all citizens. “This is why I praise the decision of President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to reintroduce our old national anthem, ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’. The words of this anthem feel like balm to the battered soul of our nation. It is truly a wonder that it was ever jettisoned in the first place. Thankfully, it is back for good. It is the first crucial step in the redemptive task of renewing our patriotic zeal.
“We must keep looking to our history for inspiration. Our founding fathers and leaders of independent Nigeria had patriotism in their DNA. They took on the colonialists with fervour and fought with pride for a new Nigeria free from the shackles of colonialism. Their acts of courage left us as proud inheritors of their hard work and sacrifice. We must honour their legacy by embodying that same spirit of patriotism in our own time.”
He, however, remarked that the sweet lyrics of an anthem, the soothing words of a pledge, the bright colours of a flag and the wishes of our forebears will not be enough. According to him, accountability, integrity and purposeful leadership must be at the forefront of efforts if Nigeria must achieve the desired results.
He stressed: “We cannot expect patriotism to flourish in an environment where corruption and nepotism go unchecked.”
He said that the Tinubu administration has shown the desire and capacity to fight corruption and enthrone good governance, adding that inclusive governance is another hallmark of the administration.
He enumerated what his administration has done. He said: “My administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to good governance and accountability. We have particularly empowered over 60,000 youths with various digital skills, in addition to other vocational and entrepreneurial skills. We have also revolutionized infrastructure provision with the completion of over 100 priority roads, while reviving a number of moribund industries. We are currently embarking on the complete electrification of the entire 27 local governments of the state through a Private Public Partnership (PPP) arrangement, taking advantage of the recent alteration of the 1999 constitution as amended, which has removed electricity from the exclusive to concurrent legislative list.”
Maintaining that youth are the future of this nation, Uzodimma said they must be engaged in nation-building. He called for the expansion of educational programmes which celebrate Nigeria’s rich culture and history, encouraging young people to take pride in their heritage. He said community service initiatives and civic responsibilities should be integrated into the education system, instilling in the youth a sense of ownership and pride in their citizenship.
He talked about civic education, national unity and inclusivity as paramount in the quest to revive patriotism. He argued that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength, and not a source of weakness. He said that across all sectors, the government must prioritize policies that ensure social justice for all citizens, regardless of their background. He said that efforts must be made to bridge the gaps between different groups, celebrating the country’s diversity while emphasizing its shared values and aspirations as Nigerians.
Uzodimma also talked about strengthening national symbols and traditions. According to him, the Nigerian flag, anthem, and pledge should be recognized and promoted as national symbols and powerful reminders of the collective identity and values. He equally urged for the restoration and promotion of the old tradition of the regular and purposeful use of the anthem and pledge in schools, public institutions, and at community events.
Uzodimma said the media and public figures should play crucial roles in shaping our national narrative. “We should work closely with the media to highlight positive stories of patriotism, civic engagement, and national achievement. Whenever we promote patriotic role models, we inspire ourselves to take pride in our country and contribute to its development,” he stated.
In conclusion, Uzodimma said that “reviving patriotism in our great nation is a task that falls to each of us. It requires a fundamental shift in our mindset and behaviour. From the halls of government to the streets, from the cities to the villages, we must all work together to foster a sense of national pride and commitment to our country’s progress.
“The challenges we face are significant, but they are not insurmountable. We can rekindle the flame of patriotism in our country if we address these issues head-on, by promoting good governance, promoting unity, investing in education, addressing economic challenges, and celebrating our national identity.
“We must also consider how far our nation is driven by merit in her public and private life. How many young people get employed in private and public spaces on merit rather than on who they know or where they come from? How many people move up their career ladder based on merit rather than who they know, their creed, or tribe? How many young men and women have unfettered opportunities to pursue their dreams, careers, or occupations based on what they can offer rather than on who they know or where they come from? The questions are indeed endless. The truth is that this nation is not largely merit-driven and that is our major bane.”
Uzodimma illustrated this unfortunate reality with a true-life story that represented the lot of many young folks.
Uzodimma posited that although the quota system was designed to ensure that all parts of the country are carried along it should that be done at the expense of merit. He said the system must find a way to ensure that fire-brand intelligent young people are not frustrated.
Uzodimma said there is “the need to take another look at our federal project, which in my view is currently skewed. We need to create sufficient space for all tribes and tongues in the land to thrive without impeding the speed or space of the other. This is why the need to rejig our federal project may be inevitable. If we do, we would have gone a long way in addressing the root of the palpable despair of a good number of our people who have lost confidence that the present federal structure is capable of protecting their interests.
“This is cogent because when we take this needful step, we will have ensured that more powers are not only devolved to the states but more responsibility, space, and resources also, which will be enough to accommodate the yearnings of our people, particularly the teeming population of the youths. Besides, by so doing we will be true to the creed of our new national anthem that ‘though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand’. And I dare to add that when we do, we will find that the Nigerians we seek, who love their country fervently and who will be ready to make sacrifices for her, are indeed everywhere.”
Former Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly and Chairman, Governing Council, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana Afikpo, Dr Acho Ihim, commended Uzodimma for a memorable and soul-lifting lecture.
Acho said: “Gov. Uzodimma has done it again. He never disappoints. His lectures are always inspiring. He gives hope to the people. He is a great motivator and speaker. With Hope, there is always hope.”
At the end, a beautiful piece of art work was presented to Uzodimma.