Nigeria needs national identity that transcends ethnicity, religion, politics – Minister

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has noted that the surest way to actualize a cohesive Nigerian identity that transcends religion, ethnicity and political affiliation is through a compelling national narrative that inspires trust and confidence amongst Nigerians.

The minister spoke at the maiden National Spokespersons Summit organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation on Tuesday, in Abuja.

Speaking on the theme of the summit, ‘Change Narrative, Change Society’, Idris noted that in recognition of Nigeria’s diversity, there is a need to create a cohesive national identity that transcends ethnicity, religion and political affiliations.

Idris said his ministry’s flagship national orientation campaign tagged ‘Nigeria Values Charter’, which would soon be unveiled by President Bola Tinubu, embodies a social contract between the country and its citizens and will serve as a blueprint and policy for a national values system, defining Nigerians and reinforcing their personality as citizens.

“The unique thing about this Values Charter is that it is a Social Contract between the government and the citizens and it contains Seven Core Obligations of the Nigerian State to its citizens as well as Seven Commitments of the citizens towards their country.

“The premise of the Values Charter is that the government as represented by elected and appointed representatives must fulfill some basic non-negotiable promises, in return for fundamental commitments from the citizens,” he said.

Idris also spoke of trust as the cornerstone of viable and sustainable communication, saying while the future of communication points towards technology, technology can only make a more meaningful impact if it is anchored on trust.

“Trust remains a critical element in building relationships; be it at personal, group, and even community levels.

“As spokespersons, we need to make conscious efforts to build trust and restore hope wherever we are. Building and maintaining trust must be a collective responsibility,” the minister said.