Nigerians Urged to Show Patriotism for Effective Governance

Nigerians Urged to Show Patriotism for Effective Governance

 

 

 

Citizens for Rights and Social Justice (CRJ), a civil rights organisation championing morality, good governance and social justice, has called on Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism and actively participate in government initiatives aimed at improving governance and national development.

 

Speaking in Okota, Lagos, CRJ President, Mr. John Adesanya, urged citizens to rise above political apathy and confront challenges hindering progress.

 

Delivering a lecture titled “Practical Ways Towards Patriotic Participation for Good Governance,” Adesanya stressed the importance of understanding the country’s history, values, traditions, and cultures as a foundation for genuine patriotism.

 

“To be truly patriotic, people need a sound knowledge of their history, leaders, values, traditions, and cultures,” he said.

 

The activist also lamented the decline in discipline and moral standards in schools, pointing to rising exam malpractice and reduced respect for authority.

 

“In the past, pupils feared the cane and behaved well. Today, teachers hesitate to discipline pupils to avoid backlash from officials and parents,” he said.

 

Adesanya further urged governments to uphold principles of responsibility, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness, noting that good governance stems from honest leaders who take full responsibility for their actions or inactions.

 

He highlighted opportunities for citizens to participate in governance, either directly or through elected representatives, and to hold authorities accountable on government policies.

 

Outlining practical steps for civic engagement, Adesanya encouraged Nigerians to vote during elections, engage in community service, obey laws, pay taxes, understand their rights, and promote unity in diversity.