‘Adopt a new moral code’ — author urges Nigerians at 65th independence anniversary

Nosa Osaikhuiwu, an author and advocate for ethical reform, says Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary is a “stark reminder of the country’s failure to realise its full potential”.

In a statement to mark Nigeria’s independence anniversary, Osaikhuiwu said despite its abundant human and natural resources, the country continues to struggle with long-standing issues such as corruption, tribalism, waste, and lawlessness.

He noted that the unresolved Nigerian question is less about leadership or politics and more about the values and principles that underpin the nation.

“It’s about the kind of society Nigerians want to live in,” he said, lamenting that the current state of affairs reflects a society willing to tolerate corruption and mediocrity without demanding restitution, atonement, or accountability.

“Despite its vast human and natural resources, Nigeria is still grappling with the same issues that have held it back for decades: corruption, tribalism, waste, and lawlessness,” Osaikhuiwu added.

“The Nigerian question, which has been the subject of much debate and discussion, remains unanswered.

“At its core, the Nigerian question is not about leadership or politics but about the values and principles that guide the nation.

“It’s about the kind of society Nigerians want to live in. Unfortunately, the current state of affairs suggests that Nigeria is a society that tolerates corruption, lawlessness, and mediocrity by its willingness to forgive any misconduct without restitution, atonement, or accountability.”

The author emphasised that Nigeria must focus on a fundamental cultural shift that prioritises ethics, transparency, and accountability.

“This paradigm shift will require the collective effort of all Nigerians, who must hold themselves accountable and come together to demand a better future for themselves and their country,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to adopt a new ethical and moral code that puts the nation first, asking how their actions today help to create a better Nigeria.

Osaikhuiwu called on all Nigerians to join the quest for culture change and ethical transformation from the grassroots level to build a brighter future for the country.

“Nigeria must embrace a culture shift, one that prioritises ethics, transparency, atonement before forgiveness and accountability,” he said.