Yesterday, I attended the book presentation of The Sun newspaper wherein an inaugural lecture was presented on the theme: The making of modern Nigeria from pre-colonial era till date. I was honoured to be one of the panelists.
As I said, a new Nigeria is possible. Nigerians should not dispair. For us to make a success of the Nigerian experiment there must be sincerity on the part of leaders and followers especially on the part of those who are privileged to occupy leadership positions in governance, business, traditional rulers and religious leaders. All must live and preach the values that are bigger and higher than narrow selfish regional and ethnic sentiments.
A nation must be united by common values and dreams which all subscribe to. There must be equity and fairness, for these are the qualities that underpin national unity, peace and stability.
The rights of every citizen must be valued, protected, respected and guaranteed irrespective of ethnicity, religion or other considerations.
I stressed a point as I have always done, a strong, United, peaceful and just Nigeria is in the interest of all and it is desirable. It takes a lot of work on the part of all, especially the leadership and leaders must rise to the occasion.
I wish all well.
HSD.
