Abuja: Dr Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, has urged Nigerians to transcend ethnic and religious divisions in favor of promoting values that enhance national unity and social cohesion. This call was made during the National Social Cohesion Dialogue and the presentation of the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey Report, an event organized by the African Polling Institute (API) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the dialogue, themed ‘Rebuilding Citizens’ Trust and Public Confidence in Governance and Public Institutions’, gathered stakeholders to discuss the increasing challenges to national cohesion. Amadi highlighted that Sections 25 and 27 of the Nigerian Constitution define citizenship based on indigeneity, yet the state continues to prioritize ethnic and religious differences over a shared national identity. He pointed out that the Nigerian state often emphasizes religious and ethnic exceptionalism instead of promoting a sense of citizenship, which has led to inconsistent policies that should otherwise support common values.
Amadi emphasized the importance of focusing on individuals rather than their ethnic or religious backgrounds, especially in times of crisis. He noted a breakdown in value systems, stating that young people are becoming disillusioned because hard work is no longer rewarded in Nigeria. He advocated for restoring a culture that rewards effort, suggesting that the current crises are largely due to merit no longer being a determinant of success.
The presentation of the 2025 Social Cohesion Survey by Prof. Bell Ihua, Executive Director of API, revealed that citizens’ trust in government and public institutions is at an unprecedented low. Ihua mentioned that the survey’s findings offer valuable insights for developing policies that promote inclusive governance and rebuild citizens’ confidence.
In his remarks, Dr Kayode Fayemi, the event’s Chairman and former Ekiti State Governor, represented by Mr Ahmad Sajoh, emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue on social cohesion. He stressed the importance of creating a framework for shared prosperity and greater mutual understanding. Fayemi urged Nigerians to return to core values that promote empathy, dignity, and unity.
Former Rivers Governor, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, also addressed the gathering, stating that the challenge lies not with the elites but with the complacency of citizens who fail to hold leaders accountable. He asserted that achieving true social cohesion will remain challenging unless citizens take responsibility and demand good governance.