United We Stand: A Call for Change in Nigeria

Once again, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone reading, commenting, and sharing my articles. Your support is the driving force that keeps me going.

A Look Back: The Momentum of 2022  

Let’s rewind to 2022, a pivotal moment as we approached the election year. For the first time in a long while, the youth were united, energized, and ready for change. The #EndSARS movement had proven that young Nigerians were no longer to be underestimated—their unity resonated beyond the borders of our country, capturing global attention. 

The message was clear: the youth would no longer tolerate mediocre leadership or bad governance. This rattled the ruling class, who knew the winds of change were blowing. Panic spread among them.

Divide and Conquer: The Weapon of the Elite  

Faced with the power of a united youth, the ruling elite reverted to their most effective tactic—divide and conquer. 

They exploited our tribal and religious differences, turning us against one another. Suddenly, instead of working toward a collective goal, we were at each other’s throats, losing sight of what mattered most. It broke my heart to see this happen. 

But to be fair, the problem is not just with the ruling class. We, the people, have long been divided. A typical Nigerian identifies first as a Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, or Calabar person, rather than as a Nigerian. This mindset has held us back. 

Here’s the harsh truth: if a foreign power were to attack Benue State, the headlines wouldn’t say, "Tiv or Idoma people attacked." It would say, "Nigeria under attack," and the whole nation would rally in response. Until we start seeing ourselves as Nigerians before anything else, real change will remain elusive. 

Meanwhile, the ruling elite—despite their differences—work together seamlessly. You’ll see a Kanuri man allied with an Ogoja man without hesitation. They don’t let ethnic or religious differences get in the way of their shared interests. Why should we, the masses, be any different?

Lessons from History: Unity as a Path to Progress  

History is full of examples where once-divided nations found unity and, with it, progress. 

Let’s take the United States, for example. In the 1860s, they were deeply divided during the American Civil War. The conflict was brutal, and Abraham Lincoln even lost his life to the cause of ending slavery. But by 1865, they found common ground, and today, an American sees himself as an American first, not by state or region.

Another example is Germany. After World War II, the country was split into East and West Germany. For over 40 years, they remained divided, but in 1990, they reunited. Today, Germany stands as one of the most developed nations in the world. 

These nations didn’t let their differences keep them from moving forward—and neither should we.

The Time is Now: Let’s Unite for a Better Nigeria  

Right now, Nigeria is going through one of its most challenging times. Inflation is soaring, the economy is struggling, and hope seems distant for many, especially the youth.

 But this is exactly the moment we need to rise above our differences. We must see ourselves as Nigerians first, not divided by tribe or religion. This is the only way we can reclaim our country and build the future we all dream of. 

Once united, we can create the change we want to see. Many countries have done it—and so can we. I believe in us. I believe in you.  

May God bless Nigeria. 

Thank you for reading. 

K. Nakamoto