Shehu Sani, a human rights activist, has emphasized that the difference between Nigeria and other African countries colonized by the French, Portuguese, Belgians, and Spanish is that they have learned to make use of their diversity and build their country for the future despite all their challenges.
In response to the criticism regarding Nigeria’s lack of progress at 64 on Independence Day, the former Senator who represented Kaduna Central emphasized that many countries have moved past historical grievances. They have used their diversity to promote unity and progress, rather than simply blaming ‘their own Lord Lugards’.
“The British forcefully brought us together to form what is now called Nigeria. But that was exactly what the French, Portuguese, Belgians and the Spanish did in other African countries.
“That was also what the colonists did in the Americas and many Asian states. Your favourite countries like the US and Canada were also products of the British, French and Spanish colonialism.
“The difference between them and us is that they are not stuck in blaming ‘their own Lord Lugards’ or blaming the condition of their births, they have learned to make use of their diversity and build their country for the future despite,all their challenges of nationhood.”
Sani, who honoured the resilience of Nigeria, stated that despite the economic and security challenges, Nigeria can only rise stronger when it is united. He revealed that “our government is disposable, but not your country,” and urged everyone to support and protect Nigeria.