TheCable

A coalition known as Groups for National Unity and Integration has unveiled a citizen-driven civic initiative aimed at motivating young people not to lose hope in the viability of Nigeria.

The initiative, “Nigeria First Project”, was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday.

Hamza Saulawa, the coalition’s coordinator, asked Nigerians to shun actions that can undermine and put the country in a bad light.

Saulawa said the initiative “deploys bottom-up approach by engaging the youth, to have a change of mindset about Nigeria”.

“We have conceptualised Nigeria First project to say enough is enough to internal and external forces that are busy undermining our country, overheating the body polity, misrepresenting Nigeria and everything about Nigeria,” he said.           

“We are true believers in the Nigerian project — the most populous black nation on earth, the giant of Africa with immense potential in men and material are fed up with the smear campaign against our country.         

“We say no to those who mislead millions of our compatriots into believing that there is nothing good about Nigeria.       

“Contrary to the campaign against Nigeria by cynics, we have seen a brighter future for Nigeria.

“For example, Nigeria has the biggest economy in Africa with a GDP of $514 Billion. During the third quarter of 2023, our GDP rose by 3.46 from 2.54.   

“Nigeria has over 84 million hectares of arable land with a competitive advantage in producing cotton, palm oil, Sorghum, Cassava etc. We are blessed with 44 exportable minerals.      

“Nigeria has a healthy, young and vibrant population with an age median of 18.6 years.

“With patience and consistent reform implementation, Nigeria can realise its objective of attaining a $1 trillion economy by 2026.”

He asked Nigerians to be “good citizens” and patience with governments as measures are being in place to grow the economy.

“We Nigerians should continue to exercise patience and support our leaders so that they will be able to deliver on their pledges,” Saulawa said.

“This is our country, and we don’t have any other country.

“So, let us play the role of good citizens by showcasing the good about Nigeria. There are also good efforts this government has made, let us motivate the leaders.”