Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concerns over Nigeria’s unity, stating that despite over a century since the amalgamation, Nigerians still prioritize ethnic loyalties over national identity.
Speaking at a forum in Effurun, Delta State, Jonathan stressed that the country’s persistent ethnic and regional divisions are hindering progress. He noted that while many nations also consist of diverse nationalities, Nigeria stands out as one where citizens struggle to see themselves as part of a united entity.
“We must begin to take the whole country as our people if we are to get out of this quagmire,” Jonathan remarked. He added, “After over 100 years of amalgamation, Nigerians should have recognized the benefits of unity, especially given our geography and ecological diversity. Yet, from that time to now, we have failed to develop the sense of unity required to see ourselves as one.”
Jonathan urged Nigerians to reduce ethnic and regional divisions and embrace a collective identity to achieve genuine development and progress.
He highlighted that loyalty to ethnic groups above the nation has created a fragmented society and called for efforts to weaken these divides. “Currently, the forces pulling us apart are too strong,” he said.
