Home NEWS Amalgamation Of Nigeria In 1914 Not Accident Of History- Group

Amalgamation Of Nigeria In 1914 Not Accident Of History- Group

A group going by the name Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative (UHGI), has said that the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914 was neither an accident of history nor by mistake.
“There can be no mistake when 250 of the most gifted and resourceful ethnic nations in Africa were pulled together in 1914 to create world’s biggest Black African nation on earth. That could not have been a mistake despite the fact that Nigeria may not have been an original British design or construct.”
Speaking today, February 18 when he led a delegation of the group on a courtesy visit to the special adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, the leader, Dr. Felix Oisamoje, quoted the remarks of the then Prime Minister of Nigeria, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa on the need for unity of purpose in 1957 thus:“Nigeria has now reached a critical stage in her history. We must seize the opportunity which has been offered to us to show that we are able to manage our own affairs properly. Every Nigerian, whatever his status, and whatever his religion, has his or her share to contribute to the crucial task; the cause for which no sacrifice will be too great. This we cannot do if we do not work together in unity.”
Dr Oisamoje said that the remarks of the late prime minister remain relevant to the nation 63 years after.
“105 years after amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates of Nigeria, despite intense religious, ethnic and regional pressures, we have endured together as one nation under God. Every time our enemies think we are broken, Nigeria rises up stronger than ever.”
Dr Oisamoje said that the pressure on Nigeria is a process of growth that will eventually turn the country into the envy of other nations, admonishing all Nigerians to remain focused, dedicated and committed to unifying the country.
Responding, Femi Adesina said that President Buhari’s vision of a unified, harmonious and purpose-driven country will be consistently followed, even as he said that the nation needs more understanding and cohesion to tackle the challenges before it and move forward.
“We will continue to support initiatives that are focused on building peace and promoting harmonious living in the country,’’ Adesina said.
The Special Adviser advised Nigerians to support the policies of the government, adding that President Buhari would continue to make sacrifices that will engender unity and cohesion in the country.
“Nigeria has now reached a critical stage in her history. We must seize the opportunity which has been offered to us to show that we are able to manage our own affairs properly. Every Nigerian, whatever his status, and whatever his religion, has his or her share to contribute to the crucial task; the cause for which no sacrifice will be too great. This we cannot do if we do not work together in unity.”
The Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative is a group of concerned Nigerians who believe citizens should reflect on the founding philosophy of unity, honour and glory, as captured in the National Pledge, and start working collectively to own and build the country, regardless of differences.

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