President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to do away with violence and embrace unity as the cornerstone for building a stronger, more cohesive Nigeria. The appeal comes amidst a backdrop of increasing political tension and social unrest in various parts of the country.
Speaking on the occasion of Armed Forces Remembrance Day, President Tinubu, who is in Abu Dhabi for this year’s ‘Sustainability Week,’ urged Nigerians to become ambassadors of peace. He emphasized the importance of peace and national unity for the country’s progress. As we navigate through these challenging times, it is imperative for every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, to shun the path of violence.
He highlighted the detrimental effects of violence on national development, pointing out how internal conflicts have historically hindered Nigeria’s growth. ‘Our strength lies in our diversity, not in our division. Let us promote unity, peace, and mutual respect among ourselves. This is the only way we can foster a nation where every citizen can thrive.’
The President’s call for unity and peace follows recent reports of isolated incidents of violence in some regions, sparked by political disagreements, ethnic tensions, and economic hardships. Tinubu’s message is seen as an attempt to calm the waters before the upcoming elections and to remind citizens of the collective responsibility they share in nation-building.
In his address, Tinubu acknowledged the economic challenges facing the nation but reassured citizens that his administration is committed to implementing policies aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting inclusive growth. He urged Nigerians to channel their energies into constructive dialogue and cooperation rather than destructive confrontations.
“Violence solves nothing; it only breeds more violence. Let us engage in constructive criticism, participate in the democratic process, and work together to solve our problems. We must all contribute to a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he remarked.
The President also touched on the need for social justice, urging all levels of government to ensure equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, which he believes would naturally lead to a reduction in social tensions.
This speech has reignited discussions on social media platforms, with many Nigerians expressing support for the President’s call to unity. On X, hashtags like #UnityForNigeria and #PeaceNotViolence have started trending, with citizens sharing their thoughts and pledging to work towards a more united nation.
However, some critics argue that while the message is welcome, it must be backed by concrete actions to address the root causes of unrest, such as unemployment, inequality, and political exclusion.
The call to unity comes at a critical time as Nigeria prepares for various state and local elections, where the political climate often heats up. President Tinubu’s message is likely aimed at setting a precedent for peaceful electoral participation and ensuring that the democratic process is not marred by violence.
As Nigeria moves forward, the implementation of policies that genuinely foster unity and address the grievances of all ethnic and religious groups will be crucial in determining the success of this call to action. The nation watches eagerly as the administration navigates these turbulent waters toward a more peaceful and united future.
