Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has said he convened the 2014 National Conference in an effort to create an environment for Nigerians to tackle issues instigating citizens towards divisive politics and planting the seeds of discord.
Jonathan made this known in his remarks during the 2nd Igbo Nsukka Zik Annual Merit Award that was held in honour of the first President of Nigerian, late Nnamdi Azikiwe, in Abuja.
He said successive governments’ inability to manage Nigeria’s diversity was a major factor inhibiting the nation’s socio-economic development.
He said: “When I convened the 2014 National Conference as President, my intention was to create an environment that would enable our citizens to dispassionately address those issues that are pushing us towards divisive politics and sowing the seeds of discord in our polity.
“I believe that, in a complex and diverse country like ours, the journey of nationhood and march to greatness is not a sprint but a marathon.
“However, to get it right, we need to do much more to unite our people and integrate our society, in order to build a nation of selfless patriots and citizens, citizens as defined by the Greek philosophers.
“That is the type of country envisioned by our nationalists.
“That is the only way to turn our huge population, rich diversity, and the outstanding resourcefulness of our people into a positive force that would transform and enhance the greatness of our dear country.
“I have no doubt in my mind that God Almighty has deposited in our land and in our citizens, the indefatigable spirit and creativity to unite, work and relate in a harmonious way and make our country great.”
Jonathan talked about the need for Nigerians to unite and agree on how to strengthen mechanisms and institutions that would foster harmonization and functionality of their diverse people.
According to him, these will bring about equitable distribution of resources and opportunities and inspire harmony, patriotism, justice, peace and sustainable development.
He expressed the belief that Azikiwe’s ideals, philosophy, and wisdom were very useful at this particular time, as Nigerians looked to chart a way forward for the country.
He added that Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and other many great nationalists tried their best to lift the country’s image.
He said: “The nation owes Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first President of Nigeria who was in office from 1963 to 1966, a debt of gratitude.
“His outstanding role while working with other great nationalists to secure the independence we enjoy today was legendary.
“Nigerians of different generations will continue to remember his extraordinary efforts towards keeping Nigeria one, and his belief in Nigeria’s greatness anchored on equity, justice, and inclusion.”
