Speech: Nigeria, Time to Heal the Divide

By Taiwo Abiodun-Oni

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens of Nigeria,

I stand before you today, not as a representative of any particular political party or faction, but as a humble patriot and citizen of our great nation, deeply committed to healing the divisions that have long plagued us. Our recent election has been a testament to the resilience and the power of democracy in Nigeria. However, it has also laid bare the stark divides that continue to challenge the unity and progress of our country. It is in this moment of reflection that I wish to address you all, to offer my thoughts on how we can move forward together and build a stronger, more unified Nigeria.

First, let us acknowledge the truth: Nigeria is a country rich in diversity, a tapestry of cultures, languages, religions, and ethnicities. While this diversity is undoubtedly one of our greatest strengths, it has also been a source of tension and conflict. Too often, we have allowed our differences to define us, to drive a wedge between us, and to prevent us from realizing our full potential as a nation.

But the Nigeria I envision is one where we embrace our diversity, not as a source of division, but as a foundation for unity. A Nigeria where we celebrate our differences, not as barriers to cooperation, but as opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding. A Nigeria where we recognize that what unites us is far greater than what divides us.

In the spirit of unity and togetherness, let us commit ourselves to the following principles:

1. Let us begin by fostering a culture of listening and empathy. It is essential that we truly hear one another, that we seek to understand the experiences, the hopes, and the dreams of our fellow Nigerians, no matter how different they may be from our own. By doing so, we create a space for dialogue, for healing, and for the formation of bonds that transcend our divisions.
2. Let us reject the voices of hatred and intolerance that seek to exploit our differences for their own gain. These voices only serve to deepen the wounds of our past and prevent us from moving forward as a united people. Instead, let us choose the path of love, respect, and mutual understanding, recognizing that the ties that bind us are stronger than those that would tear us apart.
3. Let us actively work to bridge the divides that exist within our society. This means reaching out to one another, engaging in acts of service and cooperation, and seeking to build bridges of understanding and friendship across the lines that have long separated us. We must take the initiative to break down the walls that have been built between us and to forge new connections that bring us closer together as a nation.
4. Let us hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions, demanding that they lead with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to the well-being of all Nigerians. We must ensure that our government serves as a force for unity and progress, rather than a tool for division and discord.

My fellow Nigerians, the road ahead will not be easy. It will require courage, determination, and a steadfast belief in the promise of our great nation. But I am confident that if we come together, if we choose the path of unity and understanding, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and forge a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.

I call upon each and every one of you to join hands in this journey towards healing the divide across Nigeria. Let us set aside our differences and work together to build a country that is truly united in its diversity, a country that is a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together as one people, under one flag, with one shared destiny.

In the words of our national anthem, “Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey.” Let us heed this call, standing shoulder to shoulder, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead. Let us recognize the power of unity, the strength of our shared purpose, and the indomitable spirit of our people.

Together, we can build a Nigeria where prosperity and opportunity are available to all, where no child is left behind, and where every citizen has the chance to achieve their dreams. A Nigeria where our rich cultural heritage is celebrated and cherished, and where we can all take pride in our unique contributions to our nation’s story.

As we embark on this journey of healing and reconciliation, let us draw inspiration from the wise words of the late Nelson Mandela, who once said, “It is in our hands to create a better world for all who live in it.” Indeed, it is in our hands to shape the future of our beloved Nigeria, to ensure that the promise of our nation is not just a distant dream but a reality within our grasp.

So let us join hands, my fellow Nigerians, and walk together towards that brighter future. Let us show the world what is possible when we stand united, when we embrace our diversity, and when we commit ourselves to the ideals of justice, equality, and opportunity for all.

May God bless each and every one of you, and may God bless our great nation, Nigeria.

Thank you, and God bless.