The decline of national pride and unity in Nigeria has become a significant issue, as ethnic and religious identities increasingly overshadow collective national identity. Reflecting on a time when Nigerians shared a sense of pride beyond tribal lines, this sentiment has weakened, leaving today’s youth with a fragmented view of national development. In response to this concern, a civic education project titled “Sowing Seeds of National Pride: Civic Engagement + Education for Unity” was launched to promote national pride and foster unity.
Core Objectives
This initiative, led by Titilope, seeks to revive national pride and foster civic responsibility, particularly among young Nigerians. The first phase was carried out through visits to schools and religious centres in Lagos and Kwara States, where she engaged students, young athletes, and religious communities in discussions on patriotism, civic responsibility, and national unity. The core aim of the project was to restore national pride that transcends ethnic and religious lines. By educating and engaging young Nigerians, especially in primary and secondary schools as well as religious institutions, Titilope aims to instill a renewed sense of civic duty, promote a unified national identity, and encourage active participation in building Nigeria’s future.
Key Outcomes
On July 22, 2024, the civic engagement initiative began at Mahmud Ahmadiyya College, Ijede, Lagos State, where Titilope engaged students on the topic of patriotism. The students demonstrated a theoretical understanding of patriotism, but it became evident that they lacked practical knowledge of how everyday actions could contribute to national unity and pride. Many students shared that their upbringing did not emphasize patriotism, and their parents had not actively instilled a love for Nigeria. Titilope explained that patriotism goes beyond grand gestures; simple acts such as respecting national symbols, speaking positively about Nigeria, and participating in community service can foster national pride. The students were encouraged to become ambassadors of unity in their communities, promoting peace and togetherness.
The session was interactive, with students sharing their views on patriotism based on their personal experiences and societal challenges in Nigeria. This exchange helped them understand the practical significance of patriotism, leaving them inspired to contribute to national development.
Later that day, Titilope visited the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jammah, , where she engaged with a group of women. Many of the women were primarily focused on family responsibilities, often at the expense of broader national obligations. Titilope highlighted that patriotism is reflected in everyday decisions and actions, stressing that as mothers, they have the power to shape the future generation. By teaching these children respect for the National Anthem, valuing cultural diversity, and understanding civic duties, they could play a vital role in nation-building.
On September 24, 2024, her team conducted an outreach in Igbonla, her hometown, at Ansarul Islam Secondary School. The team discovered that many students had little understanding of patriotism, particularly in rural areas like Igbonla. The session began with the students learning to sing the national anthem with pride, followed by a quiz on Nigerian history and current affairs. This exercise exposed a significant gap in civic knowledge among both students and teachers. The team also distributed sandals and notebooks to 250 students, reinforcing the role of education in national development. The eagerness and joy of the students reinforced the importance of promoting unity and pride in young Nigerians.
The final phase of the initiative took place at the Kwara Kiddies League, where she engaged with young athletes. Many of these athletes aspired to represent Nigeria in international competitions. Titilope discussed the significance of playing for Nigeria as an ultimate act of patriotism, highlighting role models such as Nigerian footballer Taiwo Awoniyi. She emphasized that representing Nigeria in sports goes beyond personal success; it reflects a commitment to uplifting the nation and fostering unity. The athletes embraced the idea that wearing the national colours and competing internationally can inspire national pride and unity.
Way Forward/Recommendations
The “Sowing Seeds of National Pride” initiative marks the beginning of a larger mission to integrate civic education into the curriculum of state-owned tertiary institutions in Kwara State. Titilope plans to work closely with educational authorities and the Kwara State government to develop a curriculum that includes Nigerian history, civic duties, and national values. A pilot programme will be introduced in select schools, with the goal of expanding to all state-owned institutions. Partnerships with the National Orientation Agency, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, and Eagles Foundation for Humanity will ensure that civic values are continuously reinforced.
Through ongoing initiatives, Titilope is committed to educating the younger generation about the importance of patriotism and national pride. This effort is part of a lifelong commitment to fostering unity and pride in Nigeria.
Expected Outcomes
The anticipated outcomes of this initiative are both immediate and long-term. In the short term, a noticeable increase in national pride among students and citizens is expected, transcending ethnic and religious divisions. More young Nigerians will become actively involved in civic duties, contributing to community development and national programs. In the long term, institutionalizing civic education in state-owned tertiary institutions will foster a generation of young Nigerians who are deeply invested in the nation’s unity and prosperity.
Next Steps
The “Sowing Seeds of National Pride” project is a transformative movement aimed at rekindling the values of patriotism and civic responsibility in Nigeria. By focusing on young Nigerians in schools, religious centres, and communities, the project addresses the root causes of national disengagement, equipping the next generation with the knowledge and motivation to embrace their Nigerian identity. This initiative seeks to inspire real, tangible action—engaging young people to become active contributors to their communities and the nation’s development. As these seeds of national pride take root, Titilope envisions a generation of young Nigerians who are not only proud of their heritage but also committed to building a united, prosperous nation that transcends ethnic and religious divides.
This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, and Eagles Foundation for Humanity, will continue with further editions, ensuring sustained efforts to foster a united and cohesive Nigeria for generations to come.
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