By: Otunba (Dr) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo. Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG)
In Nigeria, the spirit of resilience exists alongside a cloud of disillusionment. Time and again, the citizens have faced leadership challenges that reveal undercurrents of tribalism, nepotism, and religious intolerance. Former President Muhammadu Buhari entered office with a promise of discipline, accountability, and consequence, aiming to instill a sense of civic responsibility among Nigerians. However, as a nation, we neglected to grasp the lessons he sought to impart; instead, we chose to mock the pain that accompanied his leadership rather than internalizing the necessary teachings. Many saw disappointment as an opportunity for mockery rather than recognition of the painful yet critical emerging truths about our national identity.
Fast forward to the present, Nigeria is under the stewardship of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a leader who carries not only the weight of governance but also an urgent mandate to confront us with the realities we have consistently evaded. Instead of punishing us further, life sends us this new teacher. Tinubu’s governance is not just about politics; it’s about awakening the collective consciousness of Nigerians to the realization that we must transcend tribal divides, shun nepotism, and unify against religious bigotry. This awakening could mark a pivotal moment in our national journey an opportunity for our citizens to reflect on their roles in both governance and nation-building.
As we navigate through this moment of reckoning, we must confront the consequences of our past choices. Tribalism cannot build a nation, and those who cling to it diminish the very fabric of our society. Each allegiance to tribe over country harms our progress, carving deeper divisions that ensure our stagnation. Nepotism, in the same vein, creates a culture of entitlement that precipitates inefficiencies and nurtures a lack of accountability. Religious bigotry only widens the chasm of misunderstanding and distrust, preventing us from embracing our shared humanity.
The cost of ignoring these truths is steep, and we are beginning to see the signs of a national cleansing a painful but necessary correction of the prevailing mindset among our people. No longer is there room for complacency; the age of excuses is over. Emotions must not be allowed to substitute for planning, knowledge, or sacrifice. As citizens, we must hold ourselves accountable, pushing back against the impulse to deflect responsibility onto our leaders. The awakening we are experiencing demands that we acknowledge a crucial truth: Our problems extend beyond just the failings of our leaders; they reside within us, the collective mindset of our nation.
The Path to Unity and Growth
As we stand on the precipice of transformation, it is essential that we recognize the opportunity before us. The time has come for Nigerians to put aside petty divisions and unite as one people. The dream of a prosperous Nigeria one that thrives on accountability, responsibility, and unity can only become a reality if we collectively decide to rise above our tribal affiliations. This is the moment when we set aside our differences: Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Christian, Muslim, and even partisan warriors; we must unite as Nigerians.
In doing so, we will begin to cultivate a sense of loyalty not only to our tribes but to our shared destiny as a nation. The first step toward this transformation involves an earnest acknowledgment of our roles in shaping the future. We must pledge to discard the mindset that allows complacency and demands benefits without a corresponding commitment to responsibility.
A powerful shift awaits us if we embrace this national awakening and choose to learn from our history. The question that remains is whether we will finally absorb these lessons, fostering not only a better Nigeria, but better Nigerians. As we embark on this new journey, we must commit to confronting our challenges with resolve and vision. The journey is both painful and necessary, but it will lead us to a more unified and prosperous future if we decide to learn and grow together. Let us rise to this challenge, and in doing so, reclaim our nation’s promise for generations to come.
Signed:
Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo, D.Sc (h.c)
National Chairman
Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG)
Date: Friday, 21st November, 2025
Email: nchairman@aatsg.org.ng
Phone: +234 905 353 5322
Website: www.aatsg.org.ng
As we look to the future, let’s embrace the important role our choices play in shaping the destiny of our nation. Together, let’s commit to the path of active and positive citizenship!
Loyal to our Country Nigeria, Loyal to the Elected President and finally Loyal to the Truth.
