Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed concern that Nigerians remain more loyal to their ethnic nationalities than to the nation as a whole, a situation he believes has hindered collective progress and development. He made these remarks during a forum held in Effurun, Delta State, where he emphasized the need for national unity and a collective sense of purpose to move Nigeria forward.
Jonathan pointed out the critical role of federal lawmakers in fostering national integration, urging them to see themselves as representatives of the entire country rather than just their respective states or ethnic groups. He said, “You are a member of the Nigerian National Assembly, either the Senate or the House of Representatives. You are not a member of the assembly of your people at the state level. We must begin to take the whole country as our people if we are to get out of this quagmire.”
He noted that while Nigeria is not the only country composed of multiple ethnic nationalities, its citizens have yet to develop a collective identity as Nigerians. This, he argued, has contributed to the lack of genuine development. “Nigeria remains a place where people have yet to see themselves as common citizens of one nation. As long as this persists, genuine development will remain elusive,” he stated.
Reflecting on the country’s history since the 1914 amalgamation, Jonathan lamented that Nigerians have not fully recognized the advantages of unity despite the nation’s diverse geography and ecological resources. He said, “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 also highlighted the deepening divisions within the country along ethnic and regional lines, which he described as a major obstacle to progress. He remarked, “Currently, the forces pulling us apart are too strong. We must weaken the divisions along ethnic and regional lines and embrace the idea of a united nation. We are more loyal to our ethnic groups than to the nation. Nigeria, as it stands, is a collection of small ethnic nationalities, each prioritizing its interests. Over time, the divisions between these groups have only deepened.”
The former president drew comparisons to other countries with diverse populations, noting that such nations have managed to overcome these barriers and build unified identities. He stressed that until Nigeria achieves this transformation and dismantles ethnic boundaries, meaningful progress will remain out of reach.
Jonathan also called on leaders at all levels of government to prioritize national unity over regional or ethnic loyalties. He urged them to implement policies and projects that promote unity and long-term development rather than seeking short-term praise or political gains. He acknowledged the challenges of balancing appointments in a diverse country like Nigeria, particularly when it comes to leadership positions in agencies and parastatals.
“Under the constitution, it is straightforward to appoint one minister per state, given there are 36 states. However, it becomes more complex when appointing heads of agencies and parastatals, as this often attracts accusations of favoritism or nepotism,” he explained.
Jonathan concluded by reiterating the urgent need for Nigerians to transcend ethnic divisions and embrace a united national identity. He emphasized that leadership and deliberate action are critical to achieving this vision, ensuring that Nigeria can unlock its full potential and foster sustainable development.
