The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar III, recently expressed concern over Nigeria’s deviation from its foundational values. Speaking at the fourth Nnamdi Azikiwe yearly lecture in Abuja, he emphasized the need for national unity and inclusivity.
Represented by the Emir of Wase, Alhaji Muhammadu Haruna, the Sultan stressed the importance of honoring the legacy of Nigeria’s first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe. He urged Nigerians to embrace the principles laid down by past leaders to realize the nation of their dreams.
“The generation I belong to must live together as our forefathers envisioned,” the Sultan stated. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s current leadership to steer the country towards being one of the best globally.
Highlighting the neglected state of Zik’s Onuiyi Haven residence in Nsukka, Chineme Onyeke, Director-General of Igbo Nsukka United Front (INUF), called on the government to restore it. He described its current state as a national embarrassment.
According to a report by The Guardian, Onyeke also appealed for land in Abuja to build the Zik Centre for National Unity. This center would symbolize nationalism and patriotism, uniting Nigerians from diverse backgrounds. He further requested the Federal Government to take over Zik’s Onuiyi Haven, renovate it, and transform it into a national heritage center.
Amidst the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, Onyeke emphasized the relevance of Zik’s politics of national integration and unity. He believes that honoring Zik’s legacy is more crucial now than ever.
The Sultan expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ability to unite Nigeria and foster peaceful coexistence. He appealed to opposition parties and presidential candidates to collaborate with the president in revamping the economy and elevating Nigeria.
Former Niger State Governor, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, spoke on the need to reform governance. He suggested a part-time, single parliamentary house to address the high cost of governance and improve legislative effectiveness.
Aliyu underscored the importance of unity, urging leaders to see diversity as a strength and embrace a shared national identity. He emphasized the need for leaders to act in the country’s best interest, change mindsets, and commit to unity.
These calls for unity and remembrance of foundational values resonate deeply in Nigeria’s current socio-political climate. The Sultan’s message and the ensuing discussions highlight a collective yearning for a return to the principles that once guided the nation, hoping to forge a stronger, more united Nigeria.
