By Jonathan Lois
The African Polling Institute (API) has called on the federal government to embrace unity and trust amongst its citizens to enhance social cohesion.
A recent survey reveals that 26% of Nigerians express pessimism, fearing that the future of the country will be much worse. This growing concern underscores the urgent need for deliberate efforts to promote social cohesion, foster trust, and create a shared sense of belonging among citizens.
In response, the African Policy Institute (API) strongly recommends the establishment of a National Cohesion Commission. This body would be tasked with ensuring that government policies, programs, and activities are deliberately designed to promote unity, inclusive governance, and hope for a brighter future. It would also focus on providing continuous opportunities for upward mobility, helping to restore public confidence and strengthen the nation’s social fabric.
Unlike Section 2 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, which enshrines the rights of citizens and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom, yet remains non-justiciable. The new social contract should be clear seen as putting Nigerians first, not just in words, but also in action. Nigeria is also in need of a new shared vision and national identity, one that emphasizes the country’s uniqueness, its strength in population and diversity; where citizens are all equal before the law and the country works for the good of all.
Consequently, institutions such as the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Federal Character Commission and their affiliates have an increasing role to play, in shaping and amplifying narratives that help to promote social cohesion, inclusion and unity.CSOs contributions to social cohesion in Nigeria is imperative and viable because they possess the understanding, capacity and technical know-how to respond to societal issues and facilitate peaceful co-existence of the people which will help to rekindle public trust for civil authorities.
Finally, citizens are encouraged to participate in community dialogues, civil engagements and initiatives that promote cohesion and discuss the type Nigeria they would love to have; especially ideas and insights on how to build a more enduring, prosperous, and egalitarian society.
