Nigerians have been urged to take ownership of the country’s development through patriotism.
The convener of the Nigerian Patriotism Award, Ephraim Okon, made the call while speaking at a book launch on patriotism to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary in Abuja.
He emphasised individual responsibility in shaping a positive narrative in the country.
He cited John F. Kennedy’s iconic phrase, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” as a propellant for positive development in Nigeria.
Okon urged Nigerians to view their country as a collective project, contributing to its growth through service, patriotism, and love.
“We are encouraging citizens to make a difference in their fields, whether as civil servants, philanthropists, or farmers and to harness their uniqueness to serve Nigeria selflessly,” he said.
Professor Emmanuel Dandaura, Executive Director of the Institute of Strategic and Development Communication, also echoed the same sentiment, stressing patriotism and collective responsibility as critical tools in achieving national development.
“No nation can grow beyond its citizens. Nigeria’s potential can only be realised through collective effort. We all need to come together to transform our nation,” he said.
The first deputy president of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Tommy Etim Okon, also urged young Nigerians to ignore the “Japa syndrome”.
“We want young citizens to believe in their fatherland and contribute to the country’s development through technological innovation,” Okon said.
