“Not enough has been done in practical terms by our successive leaders to foster a deep sense of patriotism and oneness among the various nationalities that make up the country. We still lack quality leadership needed to guide the country on the path of peaceful coexistence, economic prosperity and security of life and property. A cursory reflection shows that we are far below where we ought to be if we take into consideration the human and natural resources with which the country is blessed. The advent of the military into governance has remained an obstacle to the growth of the nation. We must return to true federalism in order to become the nation that we want to be. Selfishness and disregard for the common good have made it impossible for the Federal Republic to function as it was meant to at independence. We need selfless leadership and patriotism. We are an independent country still searching for how to become a nation, where no one is oppressed, and everyone feels a sense of belonging”.
• Most. Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins, Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos.
