TheCable

The Promoters of One Nigeria Ambassador Group (PRONIG), a civil society organisation (CSO), has urged Nigerians to be patient with the country’s growth process.

In a statement issued to commemorate the 61st independence anniversary on Friday, PRONIG said despite the current challenges, Nigerians will still witness the country of their dreams.

The group also advised politicians encouraging divisions to desist from such actions, adding that inciting remarks will have long-term negative effects on the country.

“The country has come this far because of the sacrifices of many of her citizens. Nigerians are the best. And in spite of many challenges and agitations, we urge all Nigerians to be patient, defend their country, work for peace and unity, and remain hopeful. The Nigeria of our dream shall surely emerge. It is a work in progress. It could appear slow. But it is an assured reality,” the statement signed by Chibueze Iroka, PRONIG spokesperson, reads.

“However, as a group completely committed to promoting and defending the cause of a United Nigeria Project, we must admit our worry over escalating divisions within the country. PRONIG commissioned a countrywide research in August this year to understudy the faith-level of Nigerians in the United Nigeria Project. The result, though not damning, is actually worrisome because of the percentage of Nigerians that appear to be losing hope. And this is some of the reasons for the national upheavals and secessionist agitations.

“PRONIG is totally apolitical, and therefore do not care about the politics of our present national tension and obvious division along ethnic, regional, and religious lines. We, however, must note that though Nigeria has always dealt with the issues of ethno-religious divisions, it has never been this obvious since the Nigerian Civil War.

“The country is evidently divided. And unfortunately, politicians are making a dangerous capital out of it. And to some others, it is just a question of the political-economy of a national crises and, therefore, the embers of hate and division must be flamed.

“It is time to stop, and make a sincere review so that we do not carelessly lose this beautiful country given to us by God. It will be unconscionable, even criminal for us to pretend that things will somehow be fine by some stroke of luck or magic. It is criminal because allowing this country to slide is a crime against the country itself. Therefore, the leadership of this country has a duty of dire urgency to begin a process of National Reconciliation and Healing.”

The group also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “convoke a national dialogue”, as part of efforts to “eliminate many narratives fueled by promoters of hate and division, and bring the real issues into discussable and soluble perspectives”.