National Unity as Nigeria’s Strongest Development Tool
By Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi,
It is an undeniable truth that no nation can achieve meaningful development without peace, security, and a strong sense of unity and cohesion among its citizens.
National development is not merely the construction of roads, schools, or hospitals. It is the holistic progress of a society, where social, economic, and political systems operate harmoniously to improve the well-being of every citizen.
For Nigeria, a country rich in human and natural resources yet frequently challenged by ethno-religious tension, the imperative of unity and cohesion cannot be overstated.
History offers sobering lessons on the consequences of societal disunity. The Rwandan genocide of 1994 stands as a grim reminder of how tribal and ethnic divisions can escalate into catastrophic violence, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives and the destabilization of a nation.
Similarly, Nigeria’s civil war from 1967 to 1970 underscores the dangers of internal division. The attempted secession of the Biafra region, fueled by ethnic and leadership grievances, plunged the country into a conflict that claimed over one million lives and left deep scars on the nation’s collective psyche.
These historical tragedies raise a critical question: why do societies, rich with shared histories and potential, embark on the perilous journey of conflict and self-destruction? The answer lies largely in the absence of unity, cohesion, and genuine patriotism. A divided populace, fragmented along tribal, religious, and political lines, is more susceptible to manipulation, conflict, and underdevelopment.
From the time of Nigeria’s amalgamation in 1914, when the Northern and Southern protectorates were merged into a single nation, the seeds of division were sown. Tribal identities and religious affiliations became powerful lenses through which people viewed governance, resource allocation, and even social interaction.
Over time, the advent of democratic politics introduced yet another layer of division, where political allegiance often aligned with ethnic loyalty rather than national interest. This pattern has hindered Nigeria’s progress, eroding the potential for a shared vision of development and collective prosperity.
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Unity and national cohesion, therefore, are not abstract ideals—they are essential prerequisites for development. A cohesive society fosters trust, enabling citizens to work collaboratively across cultural and religious divides toward common national goals.
When people identify first as Nigerians rather than solely as members of an ethnic or religious group, they are more likely to support equitable policies, participate actively in governance, and contribute positively to economic growth. Conversely, disunity breeds mistrust, corruption, political instability, and the misallocation of resources, all of which stifle development.
Furthermore, national cohesion is vital for attracting both domestic and foreign investment. Investors gravitate toward stable environments where social tensions are minimal and the rule of law is respected.
In a country like Nigeria, where unity and stability remain fragile, efforts to build cohesion—through inclusive governance, dialogue, and equitable resource distribution—are directly linked to economic opportunity and sustainable development.
Education, media, and civic engagement play crucial roles in promoting unity. Schools must foster awareness of shared history, values, and national identity to cultivate patriotism among young Nigerians.
Similarly, responsible media can promote narratives of inclusion and mutual respect, countering the divisive rhetoric that often dominates public discourse. Civic engagement initiatives that encourage dialogue across ethnic, religious, and political lines can bridge gaps in understanding and create a culture of collaboration.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s path to development is intertwined with its ability to embrace unity in diversity. The country’s rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and religions should be viewed as a source of strength rather than a fault line.
Leaders must prioritize policies that promote inclusivity, equitable development, and national integration. Citizens, too, must embrace patriotism, recognizing that Nigeria’s prosperity depends on collective effort and shared commitment to the common good.
All in all, national development is inseparable from national unity and cohesion. Nigeria’s experience demonstrates that peace, stability, and a sense of shared identity are foundational to progress.
As the nation navigates complex political, social, and economic challenges, fostering unity must remain a central goal. Only through embracing this principle can Nigeria fully harness its immense potential, ensuring that development is not merely an aspiration but a lived reality for all its citizens.
Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Crisis Communication. He writes via: [email protected]
