OurNigeria News Award: Prof. Dandaura Urges Collective Responsibility for National Unity
By Matthew Eloyi
In a thought-provoking keynote address at the OurNigeria News Award event on Sunday, Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura, the Vice President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), emphasized the need for collective responsibility in forging unity within the nation.
Addressing an audience gathered for the prestigious award ceremony organized by OurNigeria News Magazine, Prof. Dandaura lauded the magazine’s role in fostering a sense of unity in the country, stating, “This magazine, with its commendable efforts, has forged the force that binds us together and ensures that Nigeria will always stand tall as a united nation.”
The distinguished speaker chose to focus on the theme “To change narratives, change behaviour,” delving into historical perspectives on unity, particularly a conversation between Sir Ahmadu Bello and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. The two leaders, according to Prof. Dandaura, presented different approaches to achieving unity in Nigeria.
“Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe said ‘We need to forget our differences and become one,’ but Ahmadu Bello disagreed, advocating for the recognition and respect of differences in building a united Nigeria,” Prof. Dandaura explained, acknowledging the validity of both perspectives.
In an engaging revelation, the professor shared results from a survey he conducted among 380 young people across Nigeria, stating that 96% of them expressed dissatisfaction with the state of unity in the country. Their concerns ranged from nepotism and corruption to insecurity, unemployment, and leadership failures.
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Notably, Prof. Dandaura highlighted a significant finding: “Out of the total respondents, 98% suggested changes directed at political leaders, government officials, religious leaders, and external actors. Only 2% included changes they should make themselves for a united and progressive Nigeria.”
The professor urged a shift in mindset, emphasizing the importance of individual contributions to nation-building. He stressed that unity requires collective effort, and citizens must not solely rely on external actors for change.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s potential, Prof. Dandaura praised the nation for its abundant human and natural resources, strategic geographical location, and innovation base. He underscored the need for citizens to embrace the can-do spirit and work towards unity and progress.
In concluding his address, Prof. Dandaura reminisced about the harmonious coexistence of different religious groups in the past, lamenting the unnecessary debates surrounding religious education in present times. He called for a return to understanding and tolerance, emphasizing the importance of appreciating the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds that makeup Nigeria.
As the OurNigeria News Award event concluded, Prof. Dandaura’s words resonated, leaving the audience with a call to action for all Nigerians to actively participate in building a united and prosperous nation.
