United Nigeria is possible: Let’s unite our nation now

POINTBLANK with Smart Emmanuel
09066642354

In some families, there’s disagreement; in some tribes, there’s disarray; in some religions and regions, there’s also division. Our nation, Nigeria, is not left out of this human reality.

Yet, if we can reconcile our family, tribal, regional, and religious differences, what then is so difficult about uniting our country? The truth is that national unity is not beyond our reach; it simply requires a change of mentality and a collective determination to build together.

Every great nation begins with a strong family foundation. When homes are divided, the spirit of division naturally extends into society. A father who teaches his children to despise people from other tribes or faiths is unconsciously planting the seed of disunity in the next generation.

If we can learn to settle disputes at home and promote peace among neighbors, then we are already taking the first steps toward national harmony. True unity starts not in Abuja or Lagos but in our hearts and homes, among ordinary Nigerians who choose peace over prejudice.

Nigeria is richly blessed with more than 250 ethnic groups, each with unique cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity is not a curse; it is our greatest gift. Sadly, instead of celebrating our differences, we often allow them to divide us.

No tribe is superior to another, and no region is more entitled to Nigeria’s future than the rest. The Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Tiv, Efik, and all others together form the beautiful mosaic called Nigeria. Unity does not mean uniformity; it means harmony in diversity, just as every musical note differs, yet together produces a beautiful symphony.

Religion, meant to bring love and morality, has too often been used to fuel division. Christians and Muslims, both serving the same Creator, sometimes treat one another as rivals. But no faith preaches hatred or violence.

When we allow religious identity to overshadow our humanity, we dishonor the very principles we claim to uphold. What Nigeria needs are religious leaders who will preach tolerance, compassion, and patriotism, reminding followers that peace is the truest form of worship.

A major cause of Nigeria’s disunity lies in political manipulation. Some politicians exploit ethnic and religious sentiments to win elections. Once in power, they abandon the people and focus on personal gain.

It’s time for Nigerians to rise above this game. We must begin to vote for competence, not tribe; character, not creed. Leadership is a sacred trust, and those who seek it should unite the people, not divide them. Our nation deserves leaders driven by vision, fairness, and compassion, leaders who understand that a divided people cannot make progress.

The youth represent the bridge between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population being young, their role in national unity cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, many have been drawn into tribalism and political manipulation.

This generation must rise above inherited prejudice. Let them be the ones who ask, not “Where are you from?” but “What can we build together?” Let them lead with ideas, creativity, and purpose.

Through social media, education, innovation, and volunteerism, Nigerian youths can reshape the narrative, turning our diversity into a tool for development rather than division.

Unity begins with mental reorientation. When we think as Nigerians first, before tribe or religion, we take the boldest step toward progress. Our schools, media, and public institutions must emphasize civic education, tolerance, honesty, and patriotism.

We must change the stories we tell about one another. The media should promote what binds us, not what breaks us. Communities should engage in inter-tribal projects to strengthen cooperation and friendship. A divided mentality can never build a united nation, but when our minds align toward peace and purpose, nothing can stop our progress.

Indeed, United Nigeria is possible. Our history proves it. We have endured civil wars, dictatorships, and economic hardship, yet each time, we rose again. That resilience shows that unity, though tested, is still alive within us.

Unity does not mean the absence of disagreement; it means the presence of understanding. We can hold different views, belong to different faiths, and live in different regions, yet remain one people with one destiny.

Our founding fathers, from Nnamdi Azikiwe to Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello, envisioned a nation where freedom, peace, and unity would reign. We owe it to them and to the generations yet unborn to keep that vision alive.

Nigeria stands today at a defining moment. We can either continue down the path of suspicion, ethnic rivalry, and mistrust, or choose the higher road of peace, love, and national rebirth.

If we can heal our families, reconcile our communities, and love beyond tribal or religious boundaries, what then is difficult about uniting our nation? We must start now, not tomorrow.

Let us build a Nigeria where no citizen feels like a stranger; a nation where leadership serves, justice prevails, and every tribe stands equal. Let us remember that our strength lies not in our divisions but in our oneness.

A united Nigeria is not just a dream; it is our collective responsibility. Together, with faith, honesty, and courage, we can make it happen.

Yagazie.