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“Yet, as we reflect on our achievements, it is impossible to ignore the challengesthat continue to cause us both pain and retrogression. And that revolves aroundthe unity, peace, and security of our nation. The dream of a united andprosperous Nigeria, where all citizens feel safe and included, remains elusive in the face of ethnic tensions, religious intolerance, and rising insecurity. These issues threaten the fabric of our society and undermine the vision of our founding fathers for a nation united in diversity.”
Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary is a metaphoric milestone in the
nation’s history, reminding us of the journey that began on October 1, 1960.
As usual, this yearly event is a time for reflection, celebration, and hope, and for this year’s celebration, it will be more of reflection and hope given the present
realities in the country.
As we celebrate 64 years of independence, we look back at the progress Nigeria has made. From the establishment of democratic governance to strides in various sectors such as education, technology, and entertainment. Entertainment especially with the success of Nigerian artistes on the global stage. We also have the breakthroughs of tech entrepreneurs, and the pride in our cultural heritage are all testaments to the country’s immense potential.
Yet, as we reflect on our achievements, it is impossible to ignore the challenges
that continue to cause us both pain and retrogression. And that revolves around
the unity, peace, and security of our nation. The dream of a united and
prosperous Nigeria, where all citizens feel safe and included, remains elusive in
the face of ethnic tensions, religious intolerance, and rising insecurity. These
issues threaten the fabric of our society and undermine the vision of our
founding fathers for a nation united in diversity.
The calls for national unity have never been more critical. As a country with over
250 ethnic groups, our strength lies in our diversity. However, to harness this strength is the need to have it nurtured through dialogue, mutual respect, and
the promotion of a shared identity that transcends ethnic and regional lines.
True unity goes beyond just co-existing; it settles more on building a nation where everyone, regardless of background, has a sense of belonging and a stake in it’s future.
Insecurity: this has become a dominant concern over decades. From insurgency
in the Northeast to banditry in the Northwest, kidnappings in southwest and
communal clashes in the Middle Belt, the increasing instability has left many
Nigerians feeling more vulnerable than ever. The government, security agencies,
and all stakeholders must continually remind themselves of the duty to
intensify efforts in restoring peace and safeguarding the lives of every Nigerian.
Security is a fundamental right, and without it, development in other areas
cannot thrive.
Lastly, the gains of peace are too huge to be ignored. As we continue to grow
economically and politically, fostering a culture of peace is non-negotiable for
our collective progress. This peace must be crested on the pillars of justice,
equity, and inclusivity as when citizens feel marginalized, it breeds resentment
and violence. A peaceful Nigeria is possible, but requires emphatically one
where governance is responsible, resources are distributed fairly, and where all voices are heard and valued.
As we mark 64 years of independence, we must embrace the spirit of collective
responsibility. The task of building a united, peaceful, and secure Nigeria is not the government’s alone; it requires the active participation of every Nigerian.
In the face of our challenges, there is still much to be hopeful for. Nigerians are
known for their resilience and unwavering optimism. Our shared experiences,
struggles, and triumphs bind us together. As we celebrate our independence, let
this be a time to renew our commitment to building a better Nigeria. Let it be a
time to promote unity over division, peace over conflict, and security over fear.
James 2:24: You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.
Meanwhile, I am delighted to inform you that come October 1, 2024, we at
NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership
will be celebrating our 20th Anniversary.
To this end is our campaign to spread the education of peace leadership to both
the old and young, women and children in various places from corporate
organizations, to political organizations, worship centers, educational
institutions, markets, and communities.
It is our belief that the more educated the people are in respect to peace
leadership, the more peaceful our country will become.
So this is a call to action to hop on our Peace campaign train, to arm yourself,
your friends, your colleagues, your employees, and your congregation with
contemporary peace leadership knowledge that makes for a happier and more fulfilled life, personally and collectively.
Kindly call or send a message on Whatsapp to +2347065828892, to be a
beneficiary of this.
Prof. Ofonime Emmanuel Bassey is a Leadership, Conflict, Peace, and Security
Management Coach with decades of experience in the practice and promotion of Law Enforcement, Peace, and Security through the Nigeria Police and the United
Nations.
He has served and interacted at the top level management of the Nigeria Police
as well as internationally as a United Nation’s Monitor/Mentor in Kosovo,
Europe.
Ofonime is a certified United Nation’s Trainer, and currently a Professor of
Leadership, Peace, and Conflict Resolution with ICOF University, USA/Zambia and a Professor of Peace Education with Charismatic International University, Cameroon.
With his marks well-established in Peace Leadership both in Nigeria and Africa,
he is the President, NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership.
Presently, he is spearheading a campaign tagged “The Next Peace Leaders”, a
campaign that is billed to run from 2022-2030 with a target of training 37,000
young peace leaders.
For leadership, conflict, peace and security consultations and trainings, reach him via:
Facebook: Dr. O.E Bassey
LinkedIn: Dr. O.E Bassey
X: Dr. O.E Bassey
WhatsApp: +2347065828892
Mail: emmanuelbassey@gmail.com
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